load ratings?

[aither]

why do wider and/or higher profile tires have greater load ratings? For example, a 205/55/16 tire may have an 87V loadrating, while the same tire in a 225/55 size will have a 94V rating. Also, wider sizes in the same tire model, will have a greater load rating. Why?

Also, does speed rating have anything to do with the stiffness of the sidewall if the load ratings are identical? My front tires are a 205/50/15 87T, while my rear tires are a 195/55/15 84V. Does this mean my front tires are more stiff than in the rear? Does it mean that they will be better equipped to handle cornering loads?

[Grant@tirerack]

The air chamber volume will be the largest factor in load rating. As a rule of tumb, the bigger the air chamber, the more load it can handle. The speed rating will have more to do with the internal construction of the belt and sidewall.

[aither]

Thanks. That helped clear up some confusion.