What does the 'W' on tires indicate?
2 Answers
The 'W' on tires indicates the speed rating of the tire, which represents the maximum driving speed the tire can sustain. Each letter corresponds to a different maximum speed. By referring to the speed symbol and checking the speed symbol comparison chart, you can determine the tire's maximum speed. The speed rating codes range from P to ZR, with different levels corresponding to different speeds. The international standard tire code is expressed in millimeters to indicate the section width and the percentage of the aspect ratio, followed by: tire type code, rim diameter, and load index. The aspect ratio is the ratio of the height from the wheel rim to the tread to the maximum width of the tire's cross-section, expressed as a percentage, i.e., the height as a percentage of the width. Tires used on motorcycles mostly have aspect ratios between 100 and 80, but high-performance racing replicas may use tires with high aspect ratios of 70 to 60.
The 'W' on the tire refers to the speed rating symbol, indicating that the tire's maximum safe speed is 270 kilometers per hour. I remember when I changed my tires last time, the mechanic reminded me that there is usually a series of letters and numbers engraved on the sidewall of the tire, and that 'W' is part of the speed rating. Generally, the higher the speed rating letter, the higher the maximum speed the tire can withstand. For example, 'H' is 210, 'V' is 240, and 'W' is 270. This is important because matching the actual needs of the vehicle ensures safety. My car is a family SUV, and I don't usually drive that fast, but if the car is a high-performance sports car, choosing a suitable 'W' rated tire can avoid the risk of a blowout. Also, don't just look at the speed rating; other parameters of the tire, such as the load index, should also be considered. Choosing the wrong tire can affect handling and fuel consumption. Safety first—it's best to check the user manual requirements when buying tires.
