Car Tyre Speed Ratings In the UK, car Tyre’s are Sold in part on a Speed rating basis which is specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Tyre speed ratings tell you the maximum speed that...

[UK Sentinel]

In the UK, car Tyre’s are Sold in part on a Speed rating basis which is specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

Tyre speed ratings tell you the maximum speed that particular tyre is legally approved for. This measurement ensures that the tyre you buy is appropriate – and safe – for the speed of the car it’s fitted on.

Speed Rating Miles an Hour (MPH)

N – 87
P – 93
Q – 99
R – 106
S – 112
T – 118
U 124
H 130
V 149
Z 150+
W 168
Y 186

 

 

Ref: https://www.protyre.co.uk

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In a completely sane world, madness is the only freedom (J.G.Ballard).

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[UK Sentinel]

But looking at the above chart and given the maximum speed in the UK allowed on any public road is 70 MPH, you would think tyres with a speed rating of N would be suitable.

Alas tyre speed rating are not only accessed on straight line speed, but also they’re about ride comfort, traction, tread wear and cornering ability. A higher speed rating generally offers better grip and stopping power, but it may have a lower tread life and reduced performance in cold weather. That’s why V, Z, W and Y-rated tyres are usually better suited to high performance vehicles in warmer climates.

You can increase the speed rating of your vehicle’s tyres for improved performance, but can never decrease it without reducing the vehicle’s top speed to that of the lower speed rating selected.

Using a Tyre that is at a lower speed rating than the manufactures recommended speed rating in some countries can also have car insurance implications, unsure how this is looked upon in the UK ?

Edit: according to Autotrader UK – ‘To be legal, your tyre speed rating much match or exceed the maximum speed of your car’.

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