Tyre speed ratings, what does it mean?

Tyre Speed Ratings

The speed rating of a tyre is displayed on the sidewall. Like in the image, you will find it at the end of the tyre's size. It is always represented by a letter - in the following example the tyre speed rating is "W".

Once you know your tyre speed rating, you can work out what is the maximum speed your tyre is capable of maintaining.

For example, the "W" rating seen in the image, tells us that this tyre can reach speeds of up to 168mph.

Speed ratings are based on tests in which engineers run the tyre at 6.2 mph steps, in 10 minute increments, until the required speed has been met