How to Read Tyre Sizes: Decoding Tyre Size Numbers Explained
Learn how to read tyre sizes like 205/55 R16 91V by understanding tread width, aspect ratio, rim diameter, load index, and speed rating.
Video transcript
Reading tyre sizes is straightforward. For example, in '205/55 R16 91V', '205' is the tread width in millimeters, '55' is the aspect ratio (tire height as a percentage of tread width), 'R' stands for radial construction, '16' is the rim diameter in inches, '91' is the load index, and 'V' is the speed rating. This size represents detailed specifications to ensure you select the correct tyre.
Questions and answers
What does the number 205 mean in a tyre size?
The number 205 represents the tread width of the tyre in millimeters.
What is aspect ratio in tyre sizes?
Aspect ratio indicates the tyre height as a percentage of the tread width; for example, 55 means the height is 55% of 205mm.
How can I tell the rim diameter from a tyre size?
The rim diameter is the number after the 'R' in the tyre size, showing the rim size in inches—such as 16 inches in 205/55 R16.
What do the load index and speed rating mean?
The load index indicates the maximum weight the tyre can support, and the speed rating defines the maximum speed the tyre is approved for.
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