High Performance Tire Characteristics

• Typically have aspect ratios of 60
• Have an H speed rating
• Provide improved traction and handling as compared to non-performance tires
• Often provide all-season capabilities – but some are not built for snow and ice
• Are generally less expensive than Ultra High Performance products

Ultra High Performance Tire Characteristics

• Typically have aspect ratios of 55 or lower
• Have speed ratings of V or above
• Typically are designed for rim diameters of 16″ and above
• Provide excellent traction, cornering and overall handling
• Have stiffer sidewalls to maximize contact with the road during cornering
• Not designed for snow and ice – although there are exceptions

Aspect Ratio

• The aspect ratio is the section height of the tire divided by its section width
• Low aspect ratio tires are wider and have shorter, stiffer sidewalls
• Low aspect ratios deliver enhanced performance attributes such as hard cornering and improved handling
• Low aspect ratio tires also impart a sporty, modern look

Example of Sidewall Markings:

• P = passenger
• 215 = section width (mm)
• 45 = aspect ratio (section height/section width)
• R = radial construction
• 17 = rim diameter

Speed Rating

A tire with the proper speed rating is important for a vehicle’s overall performance capability.
When replacing a tire, always match or exceed the speed rating of the vehicle’s original equipment to preserve the performance capabilities of your vehicle.
A speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which a tire can perform based on controlled tests – but it does not sanction operating speeds beyond what’s permissible by law.
A speed rating is identified within an alphanumeric “service description” code.

Example of Service Description (load index + speed rating) 99H

99 = load index, equating to a max load carrying capacity of 1,709 lbs.
H = speed rating, indicating a maximum safe speed of 130 mph