Tyre Guide
Correct Tyre Size
There is one clear way of checking what tyre you need and that is by reading it off the tyre wall.
Below is an image illustrating what to look for.
The first three numbers is the tyre section width in mm
The second two numbers are the tyres aspect ratio which means the height of the sidewall/ tyre width.
The last part is diameter in inches.
Tyre Tips
It is important to regularly check the condition of your tyres. If you do not do this you could be putting yourself or other road users at risk.
It is important to check your tyres frequently for a number of reasons:
• If your tyres are illegal then you are not covered by your insurance
• Worn tyres can considerably hamper the performance of your car
• It can also reduce the effectiveness of your steering, braking and acceleration if your tyres are worn.
Safety Checks
The government suggest a number of basic weekly checks that should be carried out on all vehicles.
• washing and cleaning your vehicle, particularly in winter, to ensure the windows, lights and door mirrors are clean
• checking and topping up fluid levels such as engine coolant, engine oil and brake fluid
• checking the condition of the vehicles tyres for damage, air pressure and tread
• checking that all lights work and light correctly
• ensuring wiper blades are in good order and the windscreen washer fluid bottle is full
• checking the exhaust system is in sound working order
All of the above apply to all vehicles but there are some additional checks for motorbikes.
• check for chain wear, correct tension and rear wheel alignment. Tension should be adjusted as specified in the machine's handbook. Drive chain should be lubricated to ensure excessive wear does not take place
• correct tyre pressure settings which can be found in owner's manual
• handle bars should be free to move smoothly from full left lock to full right lock without any control cables being stretched, trapped or pinched and without any snagging between moving and fixed parts
Safety Checks
A basic 5 point check is all that is needed to maintain good tyre health!
P – Pressure.
O – Overall Condition
I – Irregular Wear
N – Noise / Vibration
T – Tread Depth
Tyre Tread
The legal limit is 1.6mm over 75% of the tyre. However it is highly recommended that you replace your tyre before this limit is reached.
By checking your tyres you can avoid 3 points on your licence and a £2500 fine. Each tyre is considered a separate offence.