In short
The load index is a number showing the maximum weight a tyre can support (91 is 615 kg, 100 is 800 kg); the speed code is a letter showing the maximum speed (T 190 km/h, H 210, V 240, W 270, Y 300). They come after the size, for example 205/55 R16 91V, and must never be below those on the registration document.
Where to read them
Right after the size: in 205/55 R16 91V, 91 is the load index and V the speed code. You read them on the tyre sidewall and on the vehicle registration document. The load refers to each single tyre: to get the axle capacity, multiply by two.
Load index table
| Index | Load | Index | Load |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 250 kg | 91 | 615 kg |
| 61 | 257 kg | 92 | 630 kg |
| 62 | 265 kg | 93 | 650 kg |
| 63 | 272 kg | 94 | 670 kg |
| 64 | 280 kg | 95 | 690 kg |
| 65 | 290 kg | 96 | 710 kg |
| 66 | 300 kg | 97 | 730 kg |
| 67 | 307 kg | 98 | 750 kg |
| 68 | 315 kg | 99 | 775 kg |
| 69 | 325 kg | 100 | 800 kg |
| 70 | 335 kg | 101 | 825 kg |
| 71 | 345 kg | 102 | 850 kg |
| 72 | 355 kg | 103 | 875 kg |
| 73 | 365 kg | 104 | 900 kg |
| 74 | 375 kg | 105 | 925 kg |
| 75 | 387 kg | 106 | 950 kg |
| 76 | 400 kg | 107 | 975 kg |
| 77 | 412 kg | 108 | 1000 kg |
| 78 | 425 kg | 109 | 1030 kg |
| 79 | 437 kg | 110 | 1060 kg |
| 80 | 450 kg | 111 | 1090 kg |
| 81 | 462 kg | 112 | 1120 kg |
| 82 | 475 kg | 113 | 1150 kg |
| 83 | 487 kg | 114 | 1180 kg |
| 84 | 500 kg | 115 | 1215 kg |
| 85 | 515 kg | 116 | 1250 kg |
| 86 | 530 kg | 117 | 1285 kg |
| 87 | 545 kg | 118 | 1320 kg |
| 88 | 560 kg | 119 | 1360 kg |
| 89 | 580 kg | 120 | 1400 kg |
| 90 | 600 kg |
Speed code table
| Code | Maximum speed | Code | Maximum speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| J | 100 km/h | S | 180 km/h |
| K | 110 km/h | T | 190 km/h |
| L | 120 km/h | U | 200 km/h |
| M | 130 km/h | H | 210 km/h |
| N | 140 km/h | V | 240 km/h |
| P | 150 km/h | W | 270 km/h |
| Q | 160 km/h | Y | 300 km/h |
| R | 170 km/h |
On high-performance tyres ZR may appear instead of R: it indicates radial tyres for over 240 km/h. Today the actual speed is given by the code (W, Y) and, above 300 km/h, by the code in brackets, for example (95Y).
Dual indexes, XL and C tyres
- XL, Extra Load or Reinforced: reinforced tyre, which supports a higher load for the same size.
- Two indexes, for example 109/107: the first applies to single fitting, the second to twin (dual) fitting (double wheels on the rear axle of vans).
- C after the diameter (215/65 R16C): tyre for commercial vehicles.
Can I fit different indexes from those on the registration document?
The load index and speed code on the registration document are the minimum to respect: fitting tyres not provided for by the registration document, in size, load or speed, is penalised under art. 78 of the Italian Highway Code (Codice della Strada) (from 430 to 1,731 euro and withdrawal of the registration certificate). The one exception concerns winter tyres between 15 October and 15 May, which may have a lower speed code, not below Q, with the reminder label in the cabin.
To find the factory index and code for your model, use our finder: it shows them next to each size, where a source states them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the load index?
It is the number showing the maximum weight each tyre can support: for example 91 corresponds to 615 kg and 100 to 800 kg. You read it after the size, before the speed letter.
What is the speed code?
It is the letter showing the maximum speed the tyre is approved for: T is 190 km/h, H 210, V 240, W 270, Y 300.
What does 109/107 mean?
They are two load indexes: the first for single fitting, the second for twin (dual) fitting. They are found on van and commercial vehicle tyres.
Can I fit a higher load index?
The index on the registration document is the minimum to respect. A higher one is not a problem for load, but it can change comfort and handling: ask us to confirm before choosing.
What does XL mean?
Extra Load, or Reinforced: the tyre has a reinforced structure and supports a higher load than a standard tyre of the same size.
Sources
Updated on October 5, 2026 by Pneumatici SuperStore, Via Enrico Cosenz 63/1, Milano.