Tyre Size Calculator South Africa

FAQs

How to read tyre size in South Africa?

Tyre sizes in South Africa follow the international standard, typically formatted as “205/55R16.” This format includes the width of the tyre in millimetres (205), the aspect ratio or profile (55), the construction type (R for radial), and the diameter of the wheel in inches (16).

How do you calculate tyre size?

Tyre size is calculated using three key measurements:

1. Width: The width of the tyre in millimetres.
2. Aspect Ratio: The height of the tyre’s sidewall as a percentage of the width.
3. Diameter: The diameter of the wheel in inches.

For example, a 205/55R16 tyre has a width of 205 mm, an aspect ratio of 55%, and fits a 16-inch wheel.

How do I find out my tyre size?

You can find your tyre size on the sidewall of your current tyres, in your vehicle’s owner manual, or on the sticker inside the driver’s door jamb.

Can I use 55 tires instead of 60?

Using 55 tires instead of 60 (e.g., 205/55R16 instead of 205/60R16) means the sidewall height is shorter. This can affect the ride comfort and speedometer accuracy. It’s generally recommended to stick to the manufacturer’s specifications.

How do you read a tyre size chart?

A tyre size chart provides the specifications of various tyre sizes. To read it:

• Find the width (e.g., 205 mm).
• Identify the aspect ratio (e.g., 55).
• Determine the construction type (e.g., R for radial).
• Check the wheel diameter (e.g., 16 inches).

How do you read tyre and wheel size?

Tyre size is read from the sidewall in a format like 205/55R16. Wheel size refers to the diameter of the wheel, which in this example is 16 inches.

Can I use 275 tires instead of 265?

Yes, but switching from 265 to 275 tyres means a wider tyre, which can affect handling and fuel economy. Ensure the wheel can accommodate the wider tyre and check for clearance issues.

Can I use 215 tires instead of 225?

Switching from 225 to 215 tyres means a narrower tyre, which can impact handling and load capacity. It’s important to check the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

What size are 33 inch tyres?

33-inch tyres typically refer to the overall diameter. Commonly, these are formatted as 33×12.50R15, meaning a 33-inch diameter, 12.5-inch width, and fitting a 15-inch wheel.

What does 225-40r18 mean?

• 225: Tyre width in millimetres.
• 40: Aspect ratio (40% of the width).
• R: Radial construction.
• 18: Wheel diameter in inches.

What does R mean on tyres?

“R” stands for radial, indicating the tyre’s construction type where the cord plies are arranged radially.

What do the three numbers mean on tire size?

The three numbers represent:

• Width: Tyre width in millimetres.
• Aspect Ratio: Sidewall height as a percentage of the width.
• Diameter: Wheel diameter in inches.

Can you replace 205 60R16 with 205 55R16?

Yes, but the sidewall will be shorter, affecting ride comfort and speedometer accuracy. It’s best to consult the vehicle manufacturer.

Can I replace 205 55R16 with 215 60R16?

No, because 215/60R16 is wider and taller, which may not fit properly and can affect handling and performance.

Can I fit 65 tyres instead of 55?

Switching from 55 to 65 aspect ratio tyres means a taller sidewall, which can affect speedometer accuracy and vehicle handling. Always check with the vehicle manufacturer.

How do you read tire size for dummies?

Read tyre size by looking at the sidewall numbers, e.g., 205/55R16:

• 205: Width in millimetres.
• 55: Aspect ratio as a percentage.
• R: Radial construction.
• 16: Wheel diameter in inches.

What does the tire size 205 55 R16 mean?

• 205: Tyre width in millimetres.
• 55: Aspect ratio (55% of the width).
• R: Radial construction.
• 16: Wheel diameter in inches.

Are wider tyres better?

Wider tyres can offer better handling and traction but may reduce fuel efficiency and increase road noise. Suitability depends on the vehicle and driving conditions.

What does 235 55r19 mean?

• 235: Tyre width in millimetres.
• 55: Aspect ratio (55% of the width).
• R: Radial construction.
• 19: Wheel diameter in inches.

Does the middle number on tires matter?

Yes, the middle number is the aspect ratio, indicating the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the tyre’s width. It affects ride comfort and handling.

What does LT mean on a tire?

“LT” stands for Light Truck, indicating the tyre is designed for light trucks and SUVs, with reinforced construction for higher load capacities.

Which tire is bigger 225 or 265?

A 265 tyre is wider than a 225 tyre by 40 millimetres.

How much wider is a 285 tire than a 265?

A 285 tyre is 20 millimetres wider than a 265 tyre.

How much taller is a 275 tire than a 265?

The height difference depends on the aspect ratio. For the same aspect ratio, a 275 tyre is marginally taller than a 265 tyre. The actual difference is minimal and mainly in width.