HOW TO READ THE TYRE SIZES?

Understanding tire sizes is important for choosing the right tires for your vehicle. The numbers and letters on the tire's sidewall provide key information about its dimensions, performance, and compatibility. By learning how to read these markings, you can ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency while driving.

Once you know what the letters and numbers mean, reading tire sizes is simple. This is a summary:

Example Tire Size: 205/55 R16 91V

1. 205: Tire Width (in millimeters)

   • This is the width of the tire from sidewall to sidewall, measured in millimeters. In this case, the tire is 205 mm wide.

2. 55: Aspect Ratio (percentage)

   • This is the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of the width. Here, the sidewall height is 55% of the tire's width (205 mm). A lower aspect ratio usually means a sportier tire.

3. R: Construction Type

   • "R" stands for radial construction, which is the most common type. It indicates the layers of fabric inside the tire are arranged radially.

4. 16: Wheel Diameter (in inches)

   • This specifies the diameter of the wheel (rim) the tire is designed to fit. In this example, the tire fits a 16-inch rim.

5. 91: Load Index

   • This is a numerical code that corresponds to the maximum load the tire can carry. In this case, "91" means the tire can handle up to 615 kg. Load index charts can be used to look up the exact value.

6. V: Speed Rating

   • This letter indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely handle under its maximum load. "V" means the tire can sustain speeds up to 240 km/h (149 mph).