Tire Speed Rating H Vs V – How To Know Speed Rating Both

Robert Herrera-COR-Wheels

By Robert Herrera

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It is a fact that there is a wide range of current tires that people need to realize. When facing a lot of tires with different sizes, purposes, and speeds, what would you find the tire speed rating H and V? With two popular high-performance tires being H and V speeds in the tire industry, which is more suitable?

The Definition Of Speed Rating

Speed rating illustrates the maximum speed the tire can properly keep during the period. It is the highest-speed wheel that can operate before the faster degradation appears. Each letter in the tire show speed symbols, from A1 to ZR(Y).

Please remember carefully that these are sketched under approving conditions. Therefore, you should use them at an average level and try not to force them to the maximum speed limit because it could lead to risks.

A higher rating means this tire has better capability in control and can handle higher speeds. Especially it also means taking the extra heat. It would be best if you remembered that every tire has its own size codes that you can find on its sidewall.

How To Distinguish Speed Rating H And V? 

Before diving deeper into which is better for your performance vehicles, we should acknowledge some points that differentiate them.

The major difference between speed rating tires H and V is the tempo. An H tire’s maximum pace operating under favorable circumstances is approximately 130 mph. In contrast, a V-rated tire’s top velocity is slightly faster than an H-rated tire, around 149 mph.

It is not a one-and-only point that differentiates between H and V tires. However, changing speed limits could result in many alterations. It requires to be sketched differently to produce an “H” speed-rated tire to operate faster.

One noticeable thing that starters should recognize about the performance of tires is that rubber compounds used for speed-rating tires are considered more elastic than slower ones.

Compare The Properties Of H And V

Compare The Properties Of H And V

Which Ones Give You Comfort?

It is reported that when driving at a relevant pace, the H tire would be a better choice. The V tire has an additional stiffer construction, thus helping you have a comfortable driving experience and maximum speed on uneven road surfaces.

However, you should also consider the V tire if your driving style is taking a corner quickly or driving a sports car. We are sure the speed rating V would satisfy you in these ideal conditions.

Which Ones Last Longer?

Regarding tires’ tread life longevity, V-rated tires tend to have shorter tread life. Your driving experience will be enhanced if you have a high-speed rating.

A V tire rating is expected to lose approximately 10,000 miles to 10,500 miles instead of an H because of the rubber compound’s hardness. Therefore, it is obvious that a softer compound will lose tread patterns more quickly than a tougher compound.

Which One Is Safer?

All kinds of tires are equivalently secure —safety when driving is based on many factors. Relating to types of tires, it establishes maintaining the right tire enforcement and the tires’ good condition. As a result, the level of safety is bound to not vary by calculating their speed rating.

To assess which one is safer, we must consider when it comes to the performance of tires at a higher pace. We recommend the V-rated tire because of its durability compared to the H-speed-rated tire. 

One important note is that we tested all kinds of tires in laboratories. The conditions in labs are not similar to outside road conditions. An obvious difference between tire types could lead to a series of structure differences, thus limiting a wheel and tire’s safety issue.

For example, in the lab, tires are on trial under a 100-degree Fahrenheit condition, far smaller than a hot day in Arizona.

Moreover, you may not know which damage your vehicle bears under some unfavorable circumstances.

Which One Is Better For Your Car?

It is still a question of whether a V-rated tire or an H-one would suit your car. The choice is absolutely up to you based on your reality and desire. 

A V-speed-rated set of tires will be the best choice if you desire driving performance at or in excess of 130 mph. In contrast, if you do not intend to move fast, you should choose an “H” speed-rated tire. 

In terms of price, an H-speed-rated tire is more reasonable than a V-rated tire counterpart. Furthermore, speed rating H gives users ride comfort durability more than a V-rated tire.

FAQ 

Do Many People Use Tire Speed Rating H?

As we referred above, your choice is based on your desire while driving. You should consider many elements, namely price, typical pace, durability, tire size, and so on, thus making a final decision because each vehicle manufacturer has his own design.

H Or V Rated Tires Is Better?

An H-speed-rated tire is a perfect choice for most sedans and commuter vehicles with a pace of up to 130 mph. Meanwhile, V-rated tires are suitable for family sedans & vans, which are rated for up to 149 mph.

Is Tire Speed Rating Necessary?

Yes. This is one of the most vital factors of tires. The less or higher-than-adequate tire speed rate for your car might lead to safety problems, for example, a loss in fuel efficiency or tire failure.

Conclusion

Tire speed ratings H vs V have their strengths and weaknesses. The final decision depends on your demand. If you have not concluded, you could choose the H tire to test under typical driving situations because it is a kind of cheap, longer-lasting, more comfortable tire. It may adequately benefit you.

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Robert Herrera

President & Automotive Expert at COR Wheels

Robert Herrera has been with COR Wheels for 17 years and has a great passion for the automotive industry. During his time at COR Wheels, he has driven and test-driven a variety of vehicles.


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