<VV> Need new tires

[Rick Loving]

The first numbers are the full section width at the widest part of the
tire in millimeters, not actual tread width. The second set of numbers
is the side wall height determined by using that number as a percent of
the width number, of course the last set of numbers is the rim size.

195/80R13
195 mm wide at the widest part of tire (7.6")
195 x. 80 =  156mm tall sidewall (6.1")
13" rim

Tire height as sitting = 6.1+6.1+13 = tire slighter over 25" tall.  We
won't go into rolling diameter or other factors.  

The only good way to determine tread width if not stated is to measure
with tape measure, and of course, the contact patch will vary according
to rim width and tire pressure inflation.

I have found that same size tires by same manufacturer have narrower
tread widths in there "ride comfort" tires and wider tread in their
performace lines.  The narrower tread transmits less noise and road
vibration and the wider tire section absorbs bumps better.  The
performance tires doesn't mess with that and wants all the tread and
transaction it can get, it will also recommend a wider rim for it's
application than the same sized non performance tire.

Rick Loving 

<SNIP>
Subject: Re: <VV> Need new tires

I found some decent 185X80X13 at Firestone.  They are much wider than
the 
Douglas I saw at Wallyworld.  I always though that 185 was the tread
width, 
but some companies seem to cheat on the narrow side.