Understanding the 125/80R12 Tire Size

The 125/80R12 tire size is a common designation used to describe the dimensions and construction of a tire. Here's a breakdown of what each part of the size means:
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125 - This is the tire's width in millimeters. It indicates that the tire is 125 mm wide.
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80 - This is the aspect ratio, a percentage that represents the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. In this case, the sidewall height is 80% of 125 mm.
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R - This letter denotes the tire's construction type, which is radial.
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12 - This is the diameter of the wheel in inches that the tire is designed to fit.
How to Convert 125/80R12 Into Inches
To convert the 125/80R12 tire size into inches, we use the conversion factor of 25.4 mm per inch. Here's how the conversion is done:
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Width: 125 mm ÷ 25.4 = 4.92 inches
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Sidewall Height: 125 mm × 0.80 = 100 mm (100 mm ÷ 25.4 = 3.94 inches)
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Overall Diameter: (2 × 3.94 inches) + 12 inches = 19.88 inches
These calculations show that the tire's width is approximately 4.92 inches, the sidewall height is 3.94 inches, and the overall diameter is about 19.88 inches.
Detailed Conversion Table

Measurement |
Metric (mm) |
Imperial (inches) |
Width |
125 mm |
4.92 inches |
Sidewall Height |
100 mm |
3.94 inches |
Overall Diameter |
505 mm |
19.88 inches |
Quick Conversion Tips
When converting tire sizes, remember that 25.4 mm equals 1 inch. For quick estimations, multiply the width by the aspect ratio to find the sidewall height, then convert to inches. Add twice the sidewall height to the wheel diameter for the overall diameter.
Technical Specifications and Dimensions
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Load Index: 62 (Max load capacity of 265 kg or 584 lbs)
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Speed Rating: S (Maximum speed of 180 km/h or 112 mph)
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Recommended Tire Pressure: 35 PSI (241 kPa)
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Tread Depth: Typically around 8-10 mm when new
Compatible Vehicles for 125/80R12
The 125/80R12 tire size is commonly found on compact cars and some classic vehicles. Here are some examples:
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Honda Acty - Various models from the 1980s to the early 2000s
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Subaru Sambar - Models from the 1990s
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Daihatsu Hijet - Older models from the 1980s and 1990s
These tires are typically used on vehicles that require a small, efficient tire size. Always check your vehicle's manual or consult with a tire professional to ensure proper fitment.
Size Comparison and Alternatives
When considering alternative tire sizes, it's important to stay within a 3% difference in overall diameter to maintain vehicle performance and safety. Some alternative sizes include:
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135/70R12 - Offers a slightly wider profile
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145/70R12 - Provides a bit more width and height
Always ensure that any alternative size fits your vehicle's wheel wells and does not interfere with suspension or body components.
FAQ Section
What is the recommended tire pressure for 125/80R12 tires?
The recommended tire pressure for 125/80R12 tires is typically around 35 PSI (241 kPa). Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for optimal performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Always refer to your vehicle's manual for the exact specifications.
Can I use a different tire size than 125/80R12?
Yes, you can use a different tire size, but it's important to ensure that the overall diameter remains within 3% of the original size to avoid issues with speedometer accuracy and vehicle handling. Consult with a tire professional to find suitable alternatives.
What is the width and height of a 125/80R12 tire?
The width of a 125/80R12 tire is 125 mm (approximately 4.92 inches), and the sidewall height is 100 mm (approximately 3.94 inches). These dimensions contribute to the tire's overall diameter of about 505 mm (19.88 inches).