5 dead give-away signs that you need to know
Is it time to change your motorbike tires? Find out how you will recognize the 5 signs that show that you have to dispose and put in a new tire to tirelessly cruise the roads.
It is integral and paramount to keep our tires in good condition, as these are the so called “heavy lifters” when it comes to motorbike longevity. Keep in mind that the point of the tire that comes in contact with the road is only a few square centimeters, and in order for them to offer us the maximum levels of traction, they must be in the best possible condition. Regular pressure control guarantees the correct operation and consequently the safety of the rider, but also the longevity of the tires.
However, over time they wear out, their performance drops and they can become a hazard. Fortunately, however, they are in plain sight and unlike an accessory hidden inside the engine, we can check their wear with the eye. Let’s look at 5 signs that indicate that the time for replacement has come.
1. Wear Index
The first thing you can check is the Tire Wear Indicator (TWI). On the walls of the tires there is a triangle, which “points” to a line – a strip of rubber, which is located along the tire. If this line is at the same level with the indicatory engraving, it is time to replace it. You can also use a caliper to measure the depth of the engravings yourself – It should be at least 1.6 mm across the entire surface of the tire.
2. Uneven Wear
In some cases the tire tread may not be completely worn, but this does not mean that care is needed, as the shape of the tire can tell us if it is still suitable for use. The most common cause of uneven wear is the tire having a square shape in its crown, due to the extensive wear in the center of the tread.
3. Teething
Teething is a form of wear and tear that occurs mainly in high-heeled tires such as dirt and mixed-use tires. In this case the front part of the heel wears out, while the back retains its shape. The result is that the heel is tilted, which can create vibrations. Also, motocross and enduro riders can see the heels of their tires gradually acquire a round shape at their edges. Thus, their adhesion is reduced and they need to be changed.
4. Cuts and Piercings
If the tire has suffered cracks during its life and there are marks from holes, repairs and patches, it would be good to replace it, as it may no longer be suitable for use. Also, due to age, a tire may show some cuts – cracks on its surface, while in some cases it is possible to detach whole pieces from its rubber. The surface of a tire with many piercings and cuts is not uniform, which affects not only comfort but also performance and therefore safety.
5. Age
Even if your tires have no obvious wear, cuts or other problems, there is one more factor that determines whether they can be used and that is age. The oils in the tire evaporate over time, so it hardens. Manufacturers recommend that a tire not be used if it has been five years since its date of manufacture, but it is best not to hold it too long and change it every two years.
Of course, we are talking about tires that have already been installed on the motorcycle and not new ones that are stored in ideal conditions of temperature and humidity and are not exposed to the sun or chemicals. The date of manufacture is “printed” on the side of each tire. It consists of 4 digits, the first two show the week and the last two the year.
These are but 5 of the signals that should indicate that it’s time for you to change your tires. However, apart from tires, your bike’s lifespan greatly depends on your moto air filters as well, so make sure to know when it’s time to service them.
Looking for tires? Look no further. Motorbike Tire Shop has you covered!
