V vs H rated tires

[Pagman]

I'm searching for more aggressive tires than what I now have installed on my k. The tires I have on currently are V rated (and going bald  :yow). However, My K does not go past the 140 mark, and we all know that the speedo is faster than what's accurate. My question is, can I safely use H rated tires even though I redline it once in a summer time blue? I would prefer H rated because it's a harder compound and the prices are usually a bit easier going.

H rated- up to 130mph
V rated- up to 149mph

[Rick G]

This is my opinion and the usual disclaimers apply.
The 130mph is a continuous speed rating and if you know that you dont go even close to that at any time then yes I would say that they would be OK to use.
Of course what do the manfacturers say to use and what the authorities think is another matter.
I do relate the the giong bald thing but it aint my tires.

[frankenduck]

The trade-off on getting a tires with a harder rubber compound is that they won't give you as much traction (or braking) as a softer compound.  Basic tire physics.

If you're riding around at "normal" speeds and not pushing it then H-rated tires should be fine.

[Lawrence]

I've read that the tread depth of V-rated tires is less that otherwise comparable H-rated tires, as this lessens the build-up of heat at high speeds.  I've ridden on H-rated tires with heavy bikes for years without a problem, but I'm not a serious scratcher.   It's a judgement call, of course.  You know how you ride. I favor good long life for my tires and for me  :giggles