I've seen this debated quite often, and never seem to find the definitive answer here or elsewhere.

What value or designation on a tires' rating determines the actual STIFFNESS of the sidewall??

I'm really struggling to find the compromise between price, ride, performance, & tread-wear - just as EVERYONE does when pruchasing tires.


Thanks,
gr

 

There is no "value or designation on a tires' rating determines the actual STIFFNESS of the sidewall". After my bad experience with the weak sidewalled Falken 512s, I resorted to just squeezing the unmounted tires' sidewalls (of the same size) with my thumbs to get an idea. If it squeezes like a mountain bike tire it's too soft.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tirete....jsp?techid=33

 

I actually made a dealer remove a set of Yoko Avids off an old honda of mine because they handled like Grape Jelly.
It seems impossible to determine the actual stiffness without putting your hands on the tires. This would rule-out buying on tire rack or other internet sites.

I've been reading ENTIRELY too many reviews on tires. this is better than nothing, but just too damn subjective!
Ugh.
It's all just a crap shoot in the end.
Thanks for the feedback.
gr