How to read a tyre size, load index and speed rating
What 205/55R16 91V means, how load index and speed rating work, and what XL, C and LT stand for on Australian tyres.
Every tyre carries its size on the sidewall in the same format. Take 205/55R16 91V, a common size in the LEAO NOVA-FORCE HP100 range:
| Part | Example | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Section width | 205 | Tyre width in millimetres |
| Aspect ratio | 55 | Sidewall height as a percentage of the width |
| Construction | R | Radial |
| Rim diameter | 16 | Fits a 16-inch wheel |
| Load index | 91 | Maximum load per tyre (91 = 615 kg) |
| Speed rating | V | Maximum speed for that load (V = 240 km/h) |
Load index
The load index is a code for the most weight one tyre can carry at its correct pressure. A higher number means a higher load. A few common passenger values:
| Load index | Max load per tyre |
|---|---|
| 82 | 475 kg |
| 88 | 560 kg |
| 91 | 615 kg |
| 94 | 670 kg |
| 98 | 750 kg |
| 103 | 875 kg |
Speed rating
The letter after the load index is the maximum speed the tyre is built to sustain.
| Letter | Max speed |
|---|---|
| S | 180 km/h |
| T | 190 km/h |
| H | 210 km/h |
| V | 240 km/h |
| W | 270 km/h |
| Y | 300 km/h |
What XL, C and LT mean
- XL (extra load): a reinforced passenger tyre that carries more load at a higher pressure, for example 235/40R19 XL 96W on the NOVA-FORCE ACRO.
- C (commercial): a van tyre, such as 195R15C 106/104R on the NOVA-FORCE VAN. The two load numbers are for single and dual fitment.
- LT (light truck): a light-truck tyre, sized like 7.50R16LT on our truck range.
Choosing a replacement size
Start with the vehicle's tyre placard, usually on the driver's door frame. It lists the original size, load index and speed rating. A replacement should match or exceed the placard's load index and speed rating.
Find a LEAO tyre by size
Type any size, such as 205/55R16, into the size search at the top of this site. It lists every LEAO pattern available in that size and takes you straight to the row in its size table.
