Tyre Size Guides

How Tyre Size Affects Speedometer Reading

Understand how tyre diameter and rolling circumference can change the difference between indicated speed and actual road speed.

Why tyre size affects speedometer reading

Changing tyre size can alter the overall rolling diameter of the wheel and tyre combination.

If the new tyre has a larger diameter, the vehicle may travel slightly further per wheel rotation. If it has a smaller diameter, it may travel slightly less far per wheel rotation.

What this means in practice

A larger rolling diameter can make the actual road speed slightly higher than before at the same indicated speed. A smaller rolling diameter can make the actual road speed slightly lower than before.

What to check before changing tyre size

  • Rolling diameter difference
  • Wheel and tyre clearance
  • Load index and speed rating
  • Vehicle handbook and tyre placard data
  • Insurance and local legal requirements

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