Unless you know exactly how to patch a motorcycle tire, it’s better to avoid repairing it yourself. Tire repair can be dangerous, especially in remote locations or descending sun. Plus, you’ll likely need to get off the side of the road to get the proper tools. Tennent, of Bridgestone, says that you should try to get to a safer location before attempting tire repair.
Permanent fix for punctured motorcycle tires
A permanent fix for punctured motorcycle tires is easier than you think. First, you need to remove the tire from the bike. This will allow you to evaluate the puncture. It is important to note that a puncture further away from the centerline is more difficult to repair. This is because the edges of the tire are susceptible to extreme heat and flex. Additionally, a typical motorcycle tire repair kit might not be able to fix a puncture as large as this. To fix it properly, you need to apply a mushroom plug patch.
There are several types of motorcycle patch kits on the market. Some of them have bungs that can be pushed through the puncture and sealed with glue. These bungs can be trimmed to match the surface of the tyre. These patches work well in some cases, but may not last as long as you’d like. For the best results, use a patch kit that is specifically designed for motorcycles.
Another way to repair a punctured motorcycle tire is to mix one part washing up liquid with two parts water. The resulting solution will create bubbles inside the tyre and can be used on the rim and valve. After the solution has set, rinse the tyre and rim with clean water. Repeat this procedure for the other side of the tyre. This should fix the problem for good.
A string plug repair kit is also available. This kit comes with a pointed brass head that pushes the belt cords away while keeping the plug in place. Unlike a rubber plug, a plug patch does not need rubber cement. It melds with the tire without damaging it. It will usually last for the rest of the tire‘s life. However, “sticky rope plugs” should only be used for emergencies. Moreover, rope plugs can be stored in a cage trunk or tank bag. Besides, it is also possible to purchase a small pump for your plugs to make them easier to insert.
Types of punctured motorcycle tires
There are several different types of motorcycle tire punctures. Some can be repaired with tire sealant, which is similar to Slime. Other types of punctured motorcycle tires, however, should not be repaired at all. For example, if the puncture is bigger than 1/4 inch and not perpendicular to the carcass, you should not attempt to repair it. Another type of puncture is one that has already been repaired.
There is a British standard that determines where and how to repair certain types of punctures. The standard states that you must follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damaging the tire. Some of the recommendations also state that you should not repair a run-flat motorcycle tire. The British standard also states that no repair is allowed on Z-rated high-speed tyres. You can tell if you’ve suffered a run-flat tire by the interior sidewall being dark or marbled. Also, look for exposed cords and bolts.
When repairing a punctured motorcycle tire, you should be aware of the type of tire you’re riding. Some can be repaired with patching or plugging, but if the puncture is located in the tread, you should replace the tire. The process to repair a slow puncture is more difficult and you must have a mechanic on hand to properly fix it. If you’re not sure how to repair a slow puncture, use washing-up liquid to trace the source of the puncture.
Although tubeless radials are much safer than conventional tyres, you still should consider using an inner tube if your motorcycle tire is flat. In many cases, a tube may flex too much, causing it to overheat and rupture. Tubeless radials, on the other hand, are much more rigid and rarely have any issues with inner tubes. However, these are not recommended for tubeless motorcycle tires.
Pre-emptive fluids
Some tyres may need extra fluids to prevent punctures. Pre-emptive fluids are injected into motorcycle tyres and remain there. These fluids do have several drawbacks. They add rotational unsprung weight to motorcycles and affect their suspension capabilities. The fluids also add an extra PS20 to PS25 to the overall cost of motorcycle tyres and need to be changed every time you fit new tyres.
Motorcycle oil should always be a part of your pre-emptive routine. There are two types of motorcycle oil: synthetic and mineral-based. A synthetic oil is better for most motorcycles. Consult your motorcycle’s owner’s manual to learn which weight is right for you. If you’re unsure of what type of fluid you need, try using a synthetic product. Motorcycle fluids should be based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Motorcycle puncture repair kits are available from many motorcycle dealers and light enough to keep in your motorcycle tool box. These kits consist of plug-type repairs and usually come with a CO2 cartridge. These kits are not approved by the tyre industry and are not permanent. Motorcycle tyre repair kits are a short-term solution. If you do it wrong, you could be charged for an incorrect repair.
Cost of plug-patch repairs
While the cost of plug-patch repairs for puncture-damaged motorcycle tires may seem prohibitive, the repairs are much less expensive than replacing the tire entirely. While the replacement of the tire is more expensive, you can avoid the expense of thousands of dollars in medical bills by patching the puncture yourself. Before you can patch a tire, however, you need to remove the puncturing object. Large tears and punctures will require a replacement tire.
Despite the lower cost and simplicity of tire plugs, they may not be the best long-term solutions for motorcycle tire damage. You should avoid riding long distances on a plug as they may break after a few weeks of use. Patches, on the other hand, can last the lifetime of the motorcycle tire, provided you perform the repairs correctly. However, there is a risk of failure with plug-patch repairs – most failures result from the size of the hole or an irregularly shaped hole.
Often, motorcycle repair shops do not perform plug-patch repairs for punctured tires. They do not want to risk legal liability for repairing a motorcycle tire, and are more likely to sell a new one. Generally, a patch will cost anywhere from $20 to $25. The cost of a replacement tire can be as much as $250. But if you don’t have the time or money to patch your motorcycle tire yourself, it’s better to go through a professional.
While patch-patch repairs are a much cheaper option than a full replacement, the process is more complex and risky than the combination of patch-and-patch repairs. However, if you can find a quality shop to perform the repairs, the cost will be worth it. The repairs are also much easier to do, and it doesn’t involve multiple steps and adhesives.
Perpendicularity of puncture to tire carcass
A tire has a perpendicularly oriented puncture when the sidewall cord is exposed. The puncture is larger than a quarter-inch in diameter. In addition to exposing the sidewall cord, a tire puncture that is perpendicular to the carcass is also likely to be prone to retreasuring. It is best to avoid the repair of punctures that have a cord exposed.
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