It is time to officially re-think the definitions for high and ultra-high performance tires. Speed ratings are not enough anymore. Neither is aspect ratio. Quite frankly, they haven’t been enough for many years. Evolution in tire development continues to make those factors less relevant.

Don’t assume your technicians know everything they need to about properly mounting and balancing ultra-high performance tires. The UHP tire and wheel package is too expensive to take for granted.

There are only so many hours in your shift, so making the most of your time in the bay is critical. Here are some tools and techniques for making mounting and balancing high performance and ultra-high performance tires faster and easier.

Tracking high and ultra-high performance shipments is not as easy as it once was. Fifteen years ago, the definitions were clear: High performance referred to H-rated tires 70-series and under. UHP tires were anything V- and Z-rated. And UHP tires were a niche market, a sub-segment of the high performance category.

In 1985, the Falken tire brand was introduced to the North American market. The brand grew, focusing heavily on the high performance side of the business.