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