What is the size of a 120-70-12 tire?
2 Answers
120 indicates the tire section width in millimeters; 70 is the aspect ratio, representing the percentage ratio of the tire sidewall height to the tire section width, with 70 meaning 70%. Generally, tire aspect ratios range between 30% and 80%; 12 is the rim diameter in inches. Tire lifespan: The wear lifespan of a tire is approximately 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. If the tire hasn't reached the wear limit or mileage but has been in use for 5 years or has developed significant cracks on the sidewalls, it should be replaced. Tire material: The main component of a tire is rubber. The maximum storage and anti-aging duration for rubber, from natural latex to ethylene propylene and nitrile, does not exceed 10 years. The average service life for various rubber products in use is 3-5 years.
As a seasoned motorcycle rider with years of experience, I often help friends interpret tire sizes. The specification 120-70-12 refers to a tire width of 120 millimeters, with the 70 indicating an aspect ratio of 70%, which roughly calculates to a sidewall height of about 84 millimeters, and the 12 representing a rim diameter of 12 inches. This size is particularly common on small scooters, such as certain models from Yamaha or Vespa, as it provides decent cushioning and stability on urban streets. Recalling my first time changing to this type of tire, I noticed that the taller sidewall height meant much less road bumpiness during rides, though the handling response isn't as sharp as with lower aspect ratios. When replacing tires, it's crucial to match the vehicle's original manufacturer recommendations, as size deviations can accelerate wear or increase risks. It's advisable to regularly check and maintain correct tire pressure, as weather changes can easily affect it, impacting overall handling. Keeping an eye on tire condition during routine maintenance can save a lot of hassle.
