The importance of the ETRTO standard for motorcycle tires.
Choosing the right tires for your motorcycle is crucial for safety, handling and riding enjoyment. One tool that is often underestimated is the ETRTO table. ETRTO stands for European Tyre and Rim Technical Organization and defines standard sizes for tires and rims to ensure their compatibility and safety.
A tire with the designation 120/70-17 has the following characteristics:
- Width: 120 mm
- Cross section: 70 % of width
- Rim diameter: 17 inch
This detailed information prevents incorrect purchases and ensures that tires can be fitted technically correctly.
The ETRTO marking explained:
120/70 ZR 17 58W
- 120 - Tire width in millimeters
- 70 - Cross-sectional ratio in percent
- ZR - Radial design
- 17 - Rim diameter in inches
- 58 - Load capacity index (58 : 236 kg)
- (W) - Speed index >270 km/h
- M/C - Motorcycle
This information must match your vehicle registration document and the wheel certificate. An incorrect combination can impair handling and, in the worst case, lead to damage or accidents.
What tire sizes are available?
| Tire size table | Download |
The ETRTO table is an important reference work.
It is not a publicly accessible list, but a system of technical data used by tire and rim manufacturers.
It contains:
- Permissible rim widths per tire size
- Information on cross sections
- Specifications for compatible combinations
The same values can also be found in:
- Manufacturer manuals
- Wheel and tire certificates
- Technical specifications of the motorcycle manufacturers
Compliance with the specifications is particularly important in Switzerland, as deviations often require individual approval or an expert opinion from the motor vehicle inspection (MFK).
Possible problems in the event of non-compliance with ETRTO standards.
Compliance with the ETRTO standards is essential for driving safety. It prevents incorrect purchases and ensures that tires can be fitted technically correctly.
Instability.
Tires that are too wide on narrow rims lead to imprecise handling.
Overloading of the flanks.
Increases the risk of damage and breakdowns.
Deteriorated braking performance.
The contact surface may be impaired.
Accident risk.
In the worst case, this can lead to loss of control and injuries.
Other factors in tire selection.
In addition to the ETRTO specifications, there are additional points to consider when choosing tires:
- Motorcycle type (Sport, Touring, Enduro etc.)
- Driving style (sporty, leisurely, long distance)
- Weather and road conditions
- Tire profile (grip, mileage, comfort)
- Details in the vehicle registration document
The ETRTO table provides the technical basis, but the final choice should always be made in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and your own needs.
Conclusion: ETRTO - The key to safe tire selection.
The ETRTO standard is an essential tool when selecting motorcycle tires. A suitable tire/rim combination improves handling, safety and riding pleasure.
If you understand the markings and follow the manufacturer's recommendations, you will not only drive more safely, but also more efficiently.
If anything is unclear, it is always advisable to seek advice from a specialist dealer - especially with regard to the Swiss MFK regulations.
