What Does Tire Section Width Mean?
2 Answers
When conducting a cross-sectional analysis of a tire, it is necessary to cut the tire open. The distance between the two sidewalls after the cut is referred to as the tire section width. Below are specific details about tires: Composition: Tire specifications include the tire section width, aspect ratio, load index, speed rating, tire type, and applicable rim diameter. Among these, the tire section width significantly impacts tire safety, and it refers to the width of the tire's cross-section. Impact: Tires with a larger section width naturally have a greater contact area with the ground. During driving, this increases the friction between the tire and the road surface. Not only does this enhance the tire's wet traction performance, but it also improves water drainage, thereby increasing driving safety in rainy conditions.
Tire section width, to put it simply, is the widest distance between the left and right sides of the tire, usually measured in millimeters. For example, if you see '205/55R16' on a tire, that '205' is the section width, meaning it's approximately 20.5 centimeters wide. This width is measured when the tire is unloaded and inflated to standard pressure, directly affecting the tire's contact area with the ground. A larger surface area makes the car feel more stable when driving, reduces swaying when turning, and allows for quicker brake response; however, the downside is increased fuel consumption due to higher friction. Choosing the wrong width—too narrow and the car may feel unstable, too wide and it might rub against the wheel arch. When measuring, place the tire on a flat surface to ensure accuracy. Tire width is also related to the car's original design, so don't casually change sizes as it could affect safety. Remember, sticking to the standard is best to avoid complications.
