What does 98w and 98y mean for tires?

[RosalieRose]

98w indicates that the maximum load capacity of the tire is 750KG, and the maximum speed at which the tire can carry the specified load under specified conditions is 270 kilometers per hour. 98y indicates that the maximum load capacity of the tire is 750KG, and the maximum speed at which the tire can carry the specified load under specified conditions is 300 kilometers per hour. Additional information about tires is as follows: 1. Tires can support the entire weight of the vehicle and bear the load of the car. 2. Tires can transmit traction and braking torque, ensuring the adhesion between the wheels and the road surface. 3. Tires can mitigate and absorb the vibrations and impact forces during driving, prevent severe vibrations and early damage to car components, adapt to the high-speed performance of the vehicle, reduce driving noise, and ensure driving safety, handling stability, comfort, and energy efficiency.

[DeAmir]

Those alphanumeric combinations on tires can be quite confusing, right? 98W and 98Y actually indicate two things: load capacity and maximum speed. The number 98 represents the load index, which translates to 750 kilograms—that's how much weight a single tire can bear. The letters W and Y denote speed ratings, and the difference is significant: W is rated for up to 270 km/h, while Y can handle up to 300 km/h. I once saw sports cars using Y-rated tires at a track day, and they truly lived up to their potential. When choosing tires, never skimp on quality, especially if you enjoy driving fast. Y-rated tires might be more expensive, but they offer superior stability. The difference is most noticeable when taking high-speed corners—the grip is on another level. For city commuting, W-rated tires are cost-effective and sufficient.

[SanGarrett]

The number 98 indicates the tire's load capacity, technically known as the load index. Each tire can carry 750 kg, totaling 3000 kg for all four tires, which is more than sufficient for most family cars. W and Y represent the maximum speed ratings: W-rated tires can withstand speeds up to 270 km/h, while Y-rated tires go up to 300 km/h. Higher speed ratings generally mean stiffer tires. I've compared different speed-rated tires on the highway, and Y-rated tires offer much better stability at high speeds, but the trade-off is a bumpier ride and higher fuel consumption. Avoid using W and Y-rated tires in northern winters, as their grip can be compromised in snowy or rainy conditions. Before changing tires, always check your car's dashboard for the maximum speed to avoid wasting money on performance you'll never use.

[LaCarter]

A load index of 98 converts to a load capacity of 750 kg, while the difference between W and Y speed ratings is worth elaborating on. The W rating is equivalent to what veteran drivers refer to as medium-high-speed tires, suitable for both national highways and freeways. The Y rating is nearly track-level, with thicker sidewalls and more resilient rubber compounds. My family's station wagon came factory-fitted with 98W tires, and on one self-drive trip fully loaded with five people and luggage, it ran continuously for three hours without any issues. However, it's important to note that both types of tires require dynamic balancing when changing seasons, otherwise the steering wheel can vibrate noticeably. Regularly check the small triangular marks on the outer side of the tires, as those are wear indicators.

[GenevieveLynn]

The key difference between these two sets of parameters lies in the speed rating. The 98 load index corresponds to 750 kg load capacity with minimal variation. However, there's a 30 km/h gap in the speed ratings between W and Y. The Y-rated tires feature upgraded cord ply and rubber compound formulations. As a mountain resort owner who frequently transports clients, I've used both types: Y-rated for business guests (quieter and more comfortable) and W-rated for cost-effective deliveries. Special attention should be paid to summer tire pressure management - these high-performance tires are more sensitive to pressure variations (as little as 0.2 bar affects cornering feel). For wheel sizes exceeding 18 inches, Y-rated tires are recommended for superior support.