What does 41P mean on a motorcycle tire?
2 Answers
In motorcycle tires, 41P refers to the load index where 41 indicates the load capacity, and P represents the speed rating. Tire designation methods: There are various ways to denote tire specifications, with four common types in the market: British, German, metric, and American systems. Here's a brief explanation: The British system, used by former British colonies, employs inches as units. For example, 4.00H184PR means a width of 4 inches, suitable for speeds below 210 km/h, with an 18-inch wheel diameter and 4-ply rating. Metric tire designation: This provides a more comprehensive description of tire characteristics. Similar to the German system but replacing the "-" symbol for low-pressure tires with "R" to indicate radial construction. For instance, FZR400's rear tire is marked as 140/60R1864H, where R18's R signifies it's a radial tire.
The 41P marking on motorcycle tires took me over a decade of riding to fully understand. The number 41 is a load index, meaning each tire can bear a maximum of 145 kg - essentially its load capacity. The P stands for speed rating, indicating a top speed of 150 km/h. For us riders, these represent safety baselines. When choosing tires, consider your typical passenger/cargo weight and highway speeds. Overloading risks tire deformation/blowouts, while overspeeding accelerates wear or causes loss of control. Always check your vehicle manual to ensure matching OEM specifications. The tire sidewall also shows size/construction markings (like 120/70R17) - examine these together for complete information. Never install mismatched tires, and regularly check pressure/tread wear during maintenance to prevent roadside emergencies.
