What does it mean for a speed to be rated?
In short, it’s the fastest speed a tire can handle before it no longer performs as designed. The higher the speed rating, the better control and handling you’ll have at higher speeds. The speed rating system was developed to help control the safe performance of tires at standardized speeds.
Which is better h or T rated tires?
“H” is better than “T” as it gives better mph. But more speed rating tires give far better mph than the “H.” What do H and T mean on tires? “H” and “T” mean the speed rating on a tire. “H” stands for 130mph, and “T” stands for 118mph. Is H speed rating higher than T?
How does speed rating affect my tire choice?
The main things to know:
- Generally, the higher in the alphabet a tire is rated, the better it will manage heat and faster speeds. ...
- Your actual speed capacity may be less than a tire’s rating. ...
- If you have tires with different speed ratings, the limit of the lowest rated tire is the fastest you can drive and stay within your tires’ capability.
What does 99h mean on your tire?
What does 99H mean on tires? load index 235/55R17 99H- The load index (99) is the tire size’s assigned numerical value used to compare relative load carrying capabilities. The higher the tire’s load index number, the greater its load carrying capacity. 97 = 1,609 pounds. 98 = 1,653 pounds. 99 = 1,709 pounds.
Price
Higher performance, better handling, enhanced tech and even more premium style. The incredible Speed Twin sets a new benchmark
Specifications
| Identification | |
| Model Type | Standard |
| BASE MSRP (US) | $12,500.00 |
| Dealers | Triumph Dealers |
| Warranty | 24 |
| Insurance |
What does each letter in a tire speed rating mean?
| Engine and transmission | |
| Displacement | 1200.0 ccm (73.22 cubic inches) |
| Engine type | Twin, four-stroke |
| Engine details | 270° crank angle parallel-twin |
| Power | 98.6 HP (72.0 kW )) @ 7250 RPM |
How to determine tire speed rating?
Why put lower speed tires on front?
How long does a tire run at target speed?
What does the H rating mean on a tire?
What temperature is required for ECE?
When were tire speed ratings first developed?
See more
About this website
What is a speed rating of T mean?
Up to 118 mphQ — Up to 99 mph. R — Up to 106 mph. S — Up to 112 mph. T — Up to 118 mph. H — Up to 130 mph.
Which is better T or H speed rating?
The “T” or “H” on tires pertain to their speed ratings. A T-rated tire can withstand top speeds of up to 118 mph (190 km/h), while an H-rated tire can support up to 130 mph (210 km/h).
What means T rating?
T speed rating A T speed rating indicates the tire is approved for speeds up to 118 mph (190 km/h) under optimal conditions. T ratings are most associated with standard touring tires, and everyday passenger vehicles.
How fast can you go on T-rated tires?
118 mphSPEED RATING T With a maximum speed of 118 mph, you usually find tires with speed rating “T” on family sedans and minivans.
What does t mean on tires?
Sometimes, letters precede the first number. A "P" stands for p-metric, which is a tire used primarily on passenger cars. An "LT" indicates a light-truck tire. A "T" means it's a temporary spare.
Can you mix T and H rated tires?
Just remember, never mix and match tires with different speed ratings on your vehicle. This will cause major problems with the handling of your vehicle. If tires of different speed ratings are mounted on a vehicle, the lower speed-rated tires should be placed on the front axle, regardless of which axle is driven.
What is F rating and T rating?
The F rating indicates how long, in hours, a firestop system has successfully prevented the passage of a fire. A two-hour F rating means the firestop system prevented fire spread for two hours. The T rating is a measure of the thermal conductivity of a firestop system.
What does T & H mean on tires?
Speed rating. This letter denotes the maximum sustainable speed and is found directly after the load index. For S-speed-rated tires, it's 112 mph; for T, 118 mph. Speed ratings for other tires include Q, 99 mph; H, 130 mph; and V , 149 mph.
What load range is a 12 ply tire?
Light Truck TiresLT-Metric, LT-Flotation and LT-Numeric Light Truck TiresLoad RangePly RatingMaximum Load Pressure ≤ 295mm / 11.5" wideD865 psi (450 kPa)***E1080 psi (550 kPa)***F1295 psi (650 kPa)***3 more rows
What does 94 t mean on tires?
Speed ratings indicate the load capacity of tires, and they also measure how fast a tire can safely drive for at least 10 minutes. For instance, when you see 94T, this means that the load rating is 94 and the T indicated is the speed rating.
What is Load Range E?
Therefore load range simply tells how tough the tire is and the allowable PSI. For example, an “E” load range indicates that a tire is equivalent to a 10-ply construction tire. In realitly, this tire is not built with 10 plies, but rather one or two plies of equivalent strength.
What happens if you go faster than tire speed rating?
What happens if you exceed your tire's speed rating? If you drive faster than the rated speed for your tires you are risking damage to the tires that could cause safety and performance problems down the road.
What Is Tire Speed Rating?
A tire’s speed rating indicates the optimal speed that the tire can safely maintain over time. In short, it’s the fastest speed a tire can handle b...
Why Were Tire Speed Ratings developed?
The speed rating system used today was developed in Europe in response to the need to control the safe performance of tires at standardized speeds....
Where Can I Find My Tire Speed Rating?
You can find your tire speed rating in a number of places, typically in the owner’s manual, driver’s side doorjamb, glove box door, and gas tank ha...
What is Tire Speed Rating & Tire Speed Rating Chart | Tires Plus
Tire speed rating is the top speed a tire can safely keep over time. View our tire speed rating chart and visit your local Tires Plus to learn more today!
What is the difference between a v rated tire and a w rated tire? - Answers
Is a v rated tire better ride than a w rated tire or harder compound? Neither is better. The V & W are speed ratings. V is rated to 149 mph and W is rated to 168 mph.
In-depth discussion – Tire Speed Rating T vs. H
You can get a quick idea about the T speed rating and H speed rating from the comparison chart above. Now, let’s figure out more to get the detailed specifications.
Tire Speed Rating T or H – Which one to choose?
In the discussion, we saw that “H” is better than the “T.” But the “T” rating is also necessary for tires. Especially on a vehicle which is not meant to be driven so fast. So, choosing one between the above speed rating tires is totally up to your choice.
Final Words
We have come to the end of the discussion of Tire Speed Rating T vs. H discussion. Hope that you have gathered the knowledge about different speed ratings now. While buying the tire, make sure you specify the vehicle. It is best if you use the speed rating tire determined in the car owner’s manual.
What Is Tire Speed Rating?
A tire’s speed rating indicates the optimal speed that the tire can safely maintain over time. In short, it’s the fastest speed a tire can handle before it no longer performs as designed. The higher the speed rating, the better control and handling you’ll have at higher speeds.
Why Were Tire Speed Ratings Developed?
The speed rating system used today was developed in Europe in response to the need to control the safe performance of tires at standardized speeds. When the rating system was originally developed, the "Unlimited V" category of over 210 km/h (130 mph) was the top speed rating possible.
Where Can I Find My Tire Speed Rating?
You can find your tire speed rating in a number of places, typically in the owner’s manual, driver’s side doorjamb, glove box door, and gas tank hatch. Recent standardization has changed so all ratings except "Unlimited ZR" incorporate the speed symbol and load index as part of every tire’s service description on the tire’s sidewall.
ZR Designation
Tires having a maximum speed capability over 149 MPH may have “ZR” in the size designation. Tires with a maximum speed capability over 186 MPH are required to include “ZR” in the designation. Below are examples of tire sizes with a “ZR” speed rating.
Tire Speed Rating Chart
For tires with a maximum speed capability higher than 240 km/h (149 mph), a "ZR" may appear in the size designation. Tires with a maximum speed capability higher than 300 km/h (186 mph), require a "ZR" in the size designation. Consult the tire manufacturer for maximum speed when there is no service description.
Turn to Tires Plus for Help
Need help understanding the speed rating on tires? Our technicians have got you covered. Bring your vehicle by your local Tires Plus and we’ll help you understand your tire numbers, tire size, and more!
Where is the speed rating located on a tire?
You can find a tire’s speed rating on the sidewall, where one will typically see a string of numbers and letters. These are several important codes, such as radial construction, aspect ratio, tire load and speed rating. The speed rating is typically the last letter listed on the sidewall (coming after the load index, which is a number).
What do the letters mean?
Speed ratings go from A1 to Y, with A1 having the lowest rating and Y being the highest, but there are some anomalies. There are eight different A ratings. There are no X, O, or I ratings, and H rating is in the “wrong” place. Also, the ZR rating isn’t truly its own rating, but includes both W- and Y-rated tires.
Does tire speed rating matter?
Yes, it matters because your speed rating indicates how much heat a tire can handle safely. Not following those guidelines can lead to faster wear on the tread, decreased steering response, decreased stopping power and poor driving capabilities in colder conditions.
What are the most common tire speed ratings?
Most commuters and consumers will want either an H, S or T tire. Light trucks may need a tire between the N and T ratings. Sports cars may get better handling with a ZR tire.
What does each letter in a tire speed rating mean?
Each letter in the speed rating represents a maximum speed based on a standard chart. The main things to know: Generally, the higher in the alphabet a tire is rated, the better it will manage heat and faster speeds. There’s an exception for the H rating; read on for why.
How to determine tire speed rating?
How are Speed Ratings Determined? 1 For the ECE test, the tire is properly inflated and mounted on a wheel attached to a testing machine in a room that’s heated to 77 degrees F. 2 The tire is pressed against a metal drum with enough pressure to simulate a realistic load. 3 Starting at a speed 40 km/h lower than the proposed rating level, the tire is spun for 10-minute increments at higher and higher speeds, until it reaches the target speed. 4 The tire spins for 10 minutes at the target speed. 5 It’s then removed from the machine and inspected for any failures, like separation of tread components. If it’s intact, it passes the speed rating. 6 Sometimes an SUS (step-up speed) test will be added after the tire performs at the target speed rating. Speed is increased until the tire fails. 7 If the tire is being tested at the SAE standard, it’s required to run for an hour at target speed in a room heated to 100 degrees.
Why put lower speed tires on front?
When mounting differently rated tires , techs prefer to put the lower-speed-rated ones on the front to prevent oversteering. This can conflict with the best practice of putting the tires with the most tread on the rear, which is important for wet traction. Get tires with the same speed rating.
How long does a tire run at target speed?
Speed is increased until the tire fails. If the tire is being tested at the SAE standard, it’s required to run for an hour at target speed in a room heated to 100 degrees.
What does the H rating mean on a tire?
Your actual speed capacity may be less than a tire’s rating. The rating indicates a new tire’s performance in tightly controlled lab settings, not the open road. Tire condition, inflation level, extra cargo, road surfaces and weather are everyday limits that play into a tire’s maximum safe ...
What temperature is required for ECE?
For the ECE test, the tire is properly inflated and mounted on a wheel attached to a testing machine in a room that’s heated to 77 degrees F.
When were tire speed ratings first developed?
When tire speed ratings were first developed in Europe in the 1960s, there were only three ratings: S, H and V. As tire technology developed and new speed classes were introduced, the ratings table expanded to include the full alphabet. But the letter H kept its original speed rating of 130 mph, so it sits later in the chart.
Decoding Tire Sidewall Markings
Since we are into the topic of understanding the service description of tires, we might as well decipher the entire sidewall markings found on them. Sidewall markings provide tons of useful information about your stock or aftermarket tires, which include the following:
Tire Service Description – Speed Ratings
Although the service description comes after the rim diameter information, I purposely reserved the topic for this section to better answer, “What does the T or H mean on tires?” Simply put, tire speed rating H vs T are just two of the 31-speed ratings currently used on tires.
Up Close – H vs T Tires
Out of all the speed ratings, tires with “H” and “T” markings are the most frequently used on sedans, family cars, and SUVs. Under optimal riding conditions, these specific tires can tolerate speeds ranging from 118 mph (190 km/h) to 130 mph (210 km/h).
Top Picks for 2021
Since we are on the topic of H/T tires, it would make sense to give you a list of highly recommended H- and T-rated tires. While there are tons of reputable tire brands in the market, these top picks are lauded by some of the most respectable automakers and automotive publications:
FAQs
Vehicle owners are discouraged from doing this, as using tires with different speed ratings can result in premature tire degradation. Furthermore, it goes against one of the best practices for improving grip on slippery surfaces: putting tires that have the most tread at the rear.
What is speed rating?
SPEED RATINGS REFER TO MORE THAN JUST SPEED. Contrary to the name, speed ratings aren’t just about speed. They’re also about ride comfort, wear and cornering ability. Typically, the higher the speed rating, the better the grip and stopping power, but the lower the tread life. You can always increase the speed rating of the tires on your vehicle ...
What does 99 mean on a tire?
99 = 1,709 pounds. A tire with a higher load index than that of the Original Equipment tire indicates an increase in load capacity . A tire with a load index equal to that of the Original Equipment tire indicates an equivalent load capacity. A tire with a lower load index than the Original Equipment tire indicates the tire does not equal ...
What is a T rating?
A T rating indicates the tire is approved for speeds up to 118 mph (190 km/h) under optimal conditions. T ratings are most associated with standard touring tires, and everyday passenger vehicles like family sedans and minivans.
What is the speed rating of a tire?
An H speed rating indicates the tire is approved for speeds up to 130 mph (210 km/h) under optimal conditions. An H speed rating is at the low end, or at the start of the performance tire speed ratings. H speed rated tires are ideal for sport and luxury coupes and sedans, but not typically considered full-fledged performance vehicles. H speed ratings are common in the grand touring all-season tire category.
What does a Y rating mean on a tire?
Y rated tires have been tested at speeds up to, and in excess of, 186 mph (300 km/h) under optimal conditions. If Y speed rating is indicated without parentheses (as normal), this means the tire is rated up to 186 mph. If the Y speed rating is indicated inside of parentheses, this means that particular tire size and specification has been tested at speeds in excess of 186 mph. A Y speed rating denotes maximum tire performance.
How fast can a Q tire go?
Q tires are approved for speeds up to 99 mph (160 km/h) under optimal conditions. Tires toward the low end of the speed rating range often prioritize a particular function or unique performance over maximum speed rating. Some studdable and studless winter tires, for example, are Q speed rated.
What is an H speed rating?
An H speed rating is at the low end, or at the start of the performance tire speed ratings. H speed rated tires are ideal for sport and luxury coupes and sedans, but not typically considered full-fledged performance vehicles. H speed ratings are common in the grand touring all-season tire category. W.
What does a W mean on a car?
A W means the tire is approved for speeds up to 168 mph (270 km/h) under optimal conditions. W speed rated tires land firmly at the performance end of the speed rating spectrum. Ws are suitable for performance coupes and sedans, and even street driven exotic sports cars.
Why do you put speed ratings on tires?
Speed Ratings do vary for important reasons. Braking, cornering and performance are all great factors in decision making of new tires. Automotive designers put the ratings on the vehicle for a multitude of safety reasons. Please follow the vehicle sticker found on the door tire placard on most vehicles.
How fast can a T tire go?
Now everyone thinks they need tires rated to 140-150 mph to make it safely to the mall. How times have changed!
How fast should tires go to the mall?
Now everyone thinks they need tires rated to 140-150 mph to make it safely to the mall. How times have changed! The load range of a tire is completely separate from its speed rating, as is a tire’s wear rating and temperature range. All of these things should be taken into consideration when purchasing tires.
What does each letter in a tire speed rating mean?
Each letter in the speed rating represents a maximum speed based on a standard chart. The main things to know: Generally, the higher in the alphabet a tire is rated, the better it will manage heat and faster speeds. There’s an exception for the H rating; read on for why.
How to determine tire speed rating?
How are Speed Ratings Determined? 1 For the ECE test, the tire is properly inflated and mounted on a wheel attached to a testing machine in a room that’s heated to 77 degrees F. 2 The tire is pressed against a metal drum with enough pressure to simulate a realistic load. 3 Starting at a speed 40 km/h lower than the proposed rating level, the tire is spun for 10-minute increments at higher and higher speeds, until it reaches the target speed. 4 The tire spins for 10 minutes at the target speed. 5 It’s then removed from the machine and inspected for any failures, like separation of tread components. If it’s intact, it passes the speed rating. 6 Sometimes an SUS (step-up speed) test will be added after the tire performs at the target speed rating. Speed is increased until the tire fails. 7 If the tire is being tested at the SAE standard, it’s required to run for an hour at target speed in a room heated to 100 degrees.
Why put lower speed tires on front?
When mounting differently rated tires , techs prefer to put the lower-speed-rated ones on the front to prevent oversteering. This can conflict with the best practice of putting the tires with the most tread on the rear, which is important for wet traction. Get tires with the same speed rating.
How long does a tire run at target speed?
Speed is increased until the tire fails. If the tire is being tested at the SAE standard, it’s required to run for an hour at target speed in a room heated to 100 degrees.
What does the H rating mean on a tire?
Your actual speed capacity may be less than a tire’s rating. The rating indicates a new tire’s performance in tightly controlled lab settings, not the open road. Tire condition, inflation level, extra cargo, road surfaces and weather are everyday limits that play into a tire’s maximum safe ...
What temperature is required for ECE?
For the ECE test, the tire is properly inflated and mounted on a wheel attached to a testing machine in a room that’s heated to 77 degrees F.
When were tire speed ratings first developed?
When tire speed ratings were first developed in Europe in the 1960s, there were only three ratings: S, H and V. As tire technology developed and new speed classes were introduced, the ratings table expanded to include the full alphabet. But the letter H kept its original speed rating of 130 mph, so it sits later in the chart.
In-Depth Discussion – Tire Speed Rating T vs. H
- You can get a quick idea about the T speed rating and H speed rating from the comparison chart above. Now, let’s figure out more to get the detailed specifications.
Tire Speed Rating T Or H – Which One to Choose?
- In the discussion, we saw that “H” is better than the “T.” But the “T” rating is also necessary for tires. Especially on a vehicle which is not meant to be driven so fast. So, choosing one between the above speed rating tires is totally up to your choice. Suppose you can’t still figure out which one to take. We can suggest if you are driving a high-maintenance car and need more speed, the…
FAQs
- Which is the better T or H speed rating? “H” is better than “T” as it gives better mph. But more speed rating tires give far better mph than the “H.” What do H and T mean on tires? “H” and “T” mean the speed rating on a tire. “H” stands for 130mph, and “T” stands for 118mph. Is H speed rating higher than T? Yes. The H speed rating is higher than T....
Final Words
- We have come to the end of the discussion of Tire Speed Rating T vs. H discussion. Hope that you have gathered the knowledge about different speed ratings now. While buying the tire, make sure you specify the vehicle. It is best if you use the speed rating tire determined in the car owner’s manual. Also, make sure you regularly clean your tires. It will increase the lifespan of the tire an…