A tyre’s speed rating indicates the optimal speed that the tyre can safely maintain over time. It is the fastest speed a tyre can handle before it no longer performs as designed. The higher the speed rating, the better control and handling the tyre offers at higher speeds.
The speed rating system was developed to help control the safe performance of tyres at standardised speeds. A tyre’s certified speed rating is given a letter from A to Z, ranging from 5km/h to above 300 km/h.
This rating system shows the top speed for which a tyre is certified. It does not indicate the total performance capability of a tyre.
Speed Rating Chart – Designation:
L 120km/h 4×4 & Bakkie Tyres
M 130km/h Spare Tyre
N 140km/h Spare Tyre
P 150km/h Winter 4×4 Tyres
Q 160km/h Winter Tyres
R 170km/h 4×4 & Bakkies Tyres
S 180km/h Family Sedans & Van Tyres
T 190km/h Family Sedans & Van Tyres
U 200km/h Sedans & Coupe Tyres
H 210km/h Sport Sedans & Coupe Tyres
V 240km/h Sport Sedans, Coupes & Sports Car Tyres
W 270km/h Exotic Sports Car Tyres
Y 300km/h Exotic Sports Car Tyres
ZR 240km/h+ Sports Car Tyres
The speed rating is displayed on the tyre’s sidewall, after the load rating. In this example, the car’s speed rating is W, which indicates that it has been legally approved for use up to 270km/h.
