Tyre speed ratings

[The Doctor 46]

I had a pair of Tourance tyres on my bike but had a blow out on the rear so replaced it with the same while intending to change both front and rear for road bias tyres in the future.

I have now bought a pair of Battlax tyres and after noticing that my front Tourance was worn out decided to have one of the Battlax fitted to the front and when the rear was worn out have the same put on the rear.

My tyre fitter has refused (quite rightly) to fit the front as it would be a miss match of speed ratings so, I decided to buy another Tourance for the front, match them again and have the Battlax fitted front and rear in the summer when I can take full advantage of them.

When I looked to buy a front Tourance I found one and it is VR rated then another H rated? I don't understand.
Anyway, I phoned the tyre fitter and he is going to order a front Tourance to match the rear and fit it next week and all will be well but I'm still left confused.

Can someone more knowledgeable than me enlighten me please. 

I'm still looking forward to new road bias tyres when summer comes........ It seems so far away. 

[Upt North]

Without checking con and use regs I can't be sure. Or indeed mot regs.
But, I don't think the speed rating would be an issue? So long as they are suitable for the use etc.
Bring on the debate.

[2112]

I agree, a difference in speed ratings (as long as both are adequate and the load rating is adequate) is not an issue. I bought a 1997 Africa Twin new and it had a crossply front tyre and a radial rear, all perfectly legit. The 4x4 fraternity often fit tyres that are not speed rated to match the vehicle (Q rated - 99MPH) and no one bats an eyelid. Mind you, they are usually very gnarly treads so you would deafen youself before you got to 99MPH...

[Upt North]

This is from memory......meh......but 2112 is right that that tyre combo is OK, but I don't think it would be the other way round.
But memory is a ....... what were we on about....... why am I looking in the fridge?
Upt.

[nigel s]

https://www.michelin.co.uk/motorbike/advice-motorbike/tyre-basics/motorcycle-tyre-speed-rating-and-load-rating#

The problem with mixing ratings is how they react to warming.
A higher speed rated tyre may not warm as quickly ( or at all ) to the temp they run best at so not give optimum grip.
A lower speed rated tyre may overheat , meaning the same thing.
 In an emergency that lack, or difference, in grip could count.
Not a complete No No , I have done it, but it pays to be careful.
We are not talking 200 bhp here after all, but the 1000/1050 IS a heavy bike.