Tyre ply ratings

[.Chris.]

Just recieved the front tyre that I ordered from Oponeo (3.00/18 Continental conti-go). I was inspecting the markings when I noticed that it says "2 ply rating" on the sidewall. There's a sticker on the back of the bike with tyre sizes, pressures, etc, and it specifies a 4 ply rating tyre, and the one currently on there is a 4PR.

This has got me a bit concerned. I don't want to put a tyre on there that's not man enough for the job, but before I bought it I checked the speed rating (P - 94mph) and load index ('56' - 200kg) and both are adequate for the bike (top speed 90mph, weight ~140kg). The tyre I'm going to fit to the rear (which the sticker specifies as needing a 6PR) will have a load index of 224kg - making a total of 424kg, which I would have thought would be more than enough. I never carry a pillion and am not exactly a fatty.

Am I fretting about nothing, or have I purchased an inadequate tyre?
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Chris
1985 Kawasaki Z550F

[Efes123]

The number of ply's equal the number of layers. So, generally, a 4 ply is twice the thickness and can carry a heavier load. A good tyre is more about the compound and tread. It should be adequate, but 2 plys are generally 'cheaper' tyres, so may not be as good a ride experience.

PS When comparing toilet paper, I would always go for 4 ply over 2 ply, lots more comfort per sheet.
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Honda Goldwing GL 1000 Current love
Honda VT500 ED - SOLD
Projects Suzuki GS125 Done, then stolen - Kawasaki GPX750R SOLD - Honda VF750S SOLD

[Islander]

[symonh2000]

So, for arguements sake a tyre says 4 ply rating and nothing else, how would you know what sort of speed it was capable of?

I have a Trials bike tyre that says 4PR on it and it was bought for a DT50, but it would fit other trials bikes with bigger engines.
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Four strokes is two strokes too many.

[P.]

I buy a tyre that says it will fit and cope with the speeds.

I couldn't care past that.