Tires
Shinko
Shinko 011 Verge 120/70ZR18 59(W) Radial Front Tire Street Bike Sport Touring
- Regular
- $138.95
- Sale
- $138.95
- Regular
-
$0.00
- Unit Price
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Tires come in all different shapes and sizes, but how do you know which tire you need for your ride?
Reading the numbers on a motorcycle tire can provide important information about its size, specifications, and recommended usage. The numbers on a tire sidewall typically follow a specific format. Here's how to decode them:
Tire Size: The first set of numbers indicates the tire size. It is usually presented in the format of three numbers separated by slashes (e.g., 120/70-17). Here's what each number represents:
- The first number (e.g., 120) denotes the width of the tire in millimeters. It measures the distance from one sidewall to the other when the tire is mounted and properly inflated.
- The second number (e.g., 70) represents the tire's aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the tire's sidewall height to its width. In this example, the sidewall height is 70% of the tire's width.
- The last number (e.g., 17) indicates the diameter of the wheel rim in inches that the tire is designed to fit.
Load Rating: Following the tire size, you might find a two or three-digit number accompanied by a letter, such as 82H. The number represents the tire's load rating, which indicates the maximum weight the tire can safely carry. Load ratings are assigned based on a standardized chart, and the higher the number, the greater the load-carrying capacity.
Speed Rating: After the load rating, you may see a letter representing the tire's speed rating. The speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate. Here are some common speed ratings:
- L: Up to 75 mph (120 km/h)
- M: Up to 81 mph (130 km/h)
- N: Up to 87 mph (140 km/h)
- P: Up to 94 mph (150 km/h)
- Q: Up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
- R: Up to 106 mph (170 km/h)
- S: Up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
- T: Up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
- H: Up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
- V: Up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
- W: Up to 168 mph (270 km/h)
- Y: Up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
- (Y) or (Z): Above 186 mph (300 km/h)
These are the primary numbers and symbols you'll find on a motorcycle tire and what they represent. It's essential to select a tire that matches your motorcycle's specifications, load requirements, and intended usage for optimal performance and safety. Always consult your motorcycle's manual or a professional tire technician if you have any doubts or questions.