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The speed rating of a tire is based on U.S. Government standards for reaching
and sustaining a specified speed. Typically, a tire with a higher speed rating
results in better handling. Speed ratings are determined via laboratory tests
that simulate road performance at various speeds.
Below is a list of speed ratings along with the corresponding speeds they
represent. Remember that the speeds listed are test speeds and not recommended
speeds. Speed ratings apply only to the tire itself, and not to a particular
vehicle. Putting a tire rated for a certain speed on a vehicle does not mean
that the vehicle can be safely operated at the tire's rated speed.
• Q Up to 100mph
• R Up to 106mph
• S Up to 112mph
• T Up to 118mph
• U Up to 124mph
• H Up to 130mph
• V Up to 149mph
• W Up to 168mph
• Y Up to 186mph
• Z 149mph and over
If a listed speed rating contains two letters (such as VR), the first letter
represents the speed rating and the second letter (R) indicates that it is a
radial tire. |
