So I am looking to buy some tires- really like the value on the Hankook's but then I find- they are not N rated (porsche) -

When I look them up on Tirerack-- great rating! But followed by a "warning" about their "load" rating - OK so I will not track my Cab- its just for fun and a TIP at that- so does all that make a difference????

Thanks in advance.

SD

 

You'll get a debate about the N rating - it has some value because it means Porsche has tested the tires on p-cars and accepted them, but plenty of good tires are never tested for whatever reason and do just fine. Personally, I don't care about the N rating but I do care about the load ratings, especially on the rear tires which carry all that weight and acceleration force.

 

Load rating is actually higher than on the PS2's in the front and equal to in the back. Not sure why that would create a warning other than maybe a ride quality one. Maybe the Tire Rack guys could chime in here before you make your final decision. Besides, unless you're driving 180 MPH on the Autobahn back and forth to work everyday I wouldn't worry too much about the " N " rating . Keep in mind that Corvettes don't use "N" rated tires nor do Dodge Vipers, Lambo's, etc....

 

Also, keep in mind that if you are leasing and you turn the car in it has to have a N spec tire on it or they charge you for the tires.

Dave

 

After doing some research- talking to some TireRack guys as well- here is what they say about the Hankooks-

- Ride is rather noisy
- Quality of tire quickly degrades after limited amount of mileage

They say it is not near the Tire the PS2's is- plus I have a problem buying a tire that requires a "warning"...

I got an awesome deal on a set of slightly used PS2's so i will go down that road.

Thanks-
SD

 

I agree on the overall quality of the Hankook for Porsche.....

The load rating you saw was simply to advise that the tire is of an extra load (XL) construction.

XL constructed tires have increased sidewall construction that will allow for the tire to have an increased load capacity and/or great lateral stability. As a result they may be a bit more harsh to ride around on than a non-XL tire is. The warning is simply to tell you that if you choose to buy them that may be what you can expect. Most Porsche tires are XL anyway.

Hope this helps.....