5-6 years

How do I know when to replace my motorcycle tires?

Worn Out or Damaged TyresWear Bars. The easiest way to tell your tires are worn out is by looking for wear bars. …Patterning. Wear bars may not be much help on slicker tires with a tread that does not cross over the center of the tire surface.Damage. …

When to change motorcycle tires?

Motorcycle tire manufacturers advise that even if a tire has lots of remaining treads, the drying out of the tire’s multiple rubber compounds means it will need replacing every 5-6 years. You can find this information as a 4 digit date code located on the sidewall of the tire.

How much does it cost to change a motorcycle tire?

There are many services that mechanics generally provide, and we will look at all of them. Typically, changing tires on a motorcycle cost anywhere between $20 and 125$. In the carry-in service where you bring in your motorcycle’s wheels, the cost range is $25 to $50.

Should you balance tire on a motorcycle?

Take the time to balance the wheels. …The weights will take care of any inconvenience you may have,but you may want the alternative of balance beads relative to your circumstance.Most tire stores will use weights unless you specify the opposite,but there are some cases where the balance beads can be superior. …More items…

How to tell if motorcycle tires are worn?

Another sign of wear is cracking. When the rubber is dried out and begins rotting, it will appear as cracks on the surface. This is more common in hot, dry climates and it can be a major safety concern, causing dangerous tire blowouts while you are riding. If you see cracking , you should replace the motorcycle tires as soon as you can.

How to know when to replace motorcycle tires?

To know when to replace the motorcycle tires, simply put a penny head-first into one of the tread grooves on the tire. Provided that the tread covers Abraham Lincoln’s head, it is not too shallow. In the United States, the acceptable tread depth is usually 2/32 of an inch. If you insert the penny and see Lincoln’s head or face, you need to replace the motorcycle tires as soon as possible.

Why is it so hard to generalize tire timelines?

These issues create not only uneven wear but also accelerated wear. Motorcycle maintenance is necessary for extending the life of your tires, which explains why it is hard to generalize tire timelines—each set of circumstances has a different impact.

What is the most visible area of a tire?

The most visible area of the tire is its tread pattern. Located around the exterior of the tire, the textured pattern that sits on top of the tire carcass can tell you a lot about how many miles your tires have left.

What to do if you have a punctured motorcycle tire?

When you have a punctured tire, you should always use a patch or plug-patch to fix it . Cheap plugs do not require you to take the tire off the wheel, and it is important to assess the inside of the tire before you repair a puncture. Black shavings on the inside of the tire indicate that you have had significant low-pressure wear and that you need to replace the motorcycle tire altogether.

Why do bike tires wear out faster?

External factors such as weather patterns and road conditions also play a major role. If you frequently drive on smooth pavement, your tires are going to last longer than if you ride a very coarse road daily. Sport bike tires are made of softer compounds than say a sport touring or cruiser tires, so they will tend to wear out quicker in the same environment.

Why do my tires look angular?

If you notice that your tires have lost their round shape and look more angular, it is probably because they have seen many miles. In this situation, you might try re-inflating the tires to see if you notice any changes. It is possible that the tire pressure is low and causing your tires to appear misshapen.

Is it OK to mix tire brands on a motorcycle?

The tire manufacturers say definitely not, but many riders think this is just a tactic to boost sales.

Why do motorcycle tires have rubber?

This is done to help the rear tire wear more slowly and withstand more abuse from acceleration.

Why do racers use tire warmers?

This is part of the reason racers and track day riders use tire warmers. Not only to keep the tire warm and grippy but to reduce the number of heat cycles that the tire will have to endure. This is also why it’s a good idea to try to replace your tires and sets.

What does it mean when a tire starts making weird patterns?

When the rubber starts making these weird patterns, that means the metal chords are just about to wear through. It’s worth noting that a tire does not wear at the same rate throughout its life. As the rubber becomes thinner, the tire wears faster. Like car tires, motorcycle tires have wear bars.

Why does my bike tire lose grip?

Heat increases the rate of oxidization, so if your bike lives in a hot garage, or you live in a hot environment, your tire will lose its grip more rapidly because the heat accelerates the rate of decomposition of the rubber.

What is the most important component of keeping us from landing on our heads?

Tires are one of the most critical components keeping us from landing on our heads. Many factors contribute to a tire being worn out, including the most obvious. This is an extreme example of a tire being flat worn out.

What does 2714 mean on a tire?

If the number is “2714” that means the tire was manufactured in the 27th week of 2014. If the number is “0516” that means the tire was manufactured in the fifth week of 2016.

How to tell if a tire is worn out?

The easiest way to tell your tires are worn out is by looking for wear bars. These are small, raised bumps sitting at the bottom of the tread grooves. If you are having trouble finding the wear bars, have a look on the side-wall of the tire for a △ (triangle) or “ TWI ” molded into the rubber. These are tire wear indicators and by following a direct line from that marking across the tire surface to the other sidewall, you should find wear bars in the tread grooves somewhere along that line.

What does it mean when your bike tires are scalping?

Alternatively, if you live in an area with lots of bends , you may see your front tire wear unevenly on one side more than the other , this is commonly known as “scalping”. While your tires may have ample tread depth, if they begin to wear unevenly you will notice a change in the bike’s handling while riding.

What does the number 0116 mean on a tire?

The last four numbers will indicate the month and year the tire was manufactured. For example, 0116 means the tire came off the production line in January 2016.

How much tread do you have left on a bike tire?

If the tire surface is level with any of the wear bars, you only have about 1/32 inch left of tread and your tires should be replaced. At this point of wear, your bike can be compromised through instability, loss of grip, flat tires, or even blow-outs.

Why do tires have metal cords?

Metal cords are used to hold the carcass and structure of the tire together. As the tire wears, the rubber protecting the metal cords gets thinner and their shape or pattern can start to show through the surface of the tire. In extreme cases, the rubber may wear through completely showing visible metal cords on the surface of the tire or even throwing sparks while riding. Sparks are bad. You definitely need to replace your tire if you start seeing sparks.

Why do tires come with a round surface?

Tires fresh off the production line will come with a perfectly round surface or profile so that when used they have a smooth ride and consistent handling. Over time, the tire profile can wear unevenly depending on your riding style and the roads you most commonly ride.

What is wear bar?

Equally important, in many countries, wear bars are also an indicator that you are legally required to replace your tire (check your local jurisdiction for road safety requirements).

When to Replace Your Motorcycle Tires & How Long Do Motorcycle Tires Last?

Knowing when to replace your motorcycle tires will keep you safe and get you most out of each tire you’re using. Waiting too long can be dangerous as it would reduce traction, offer less braking resistance, and make it slippery in wet conditions.

How Many Miles Do Motorcycle Tires Last?

There isn’t a particular mileage that most tires will achieve. Each individual tire is going to have a unique lifespan depending on a wide range of different factors.

What does it mean when a tire sidewall is cracked?

Both of these issues need to be mediated right away. For a cracked sidewall, this is known as dry rot and happens as the tires age. It’s also possible that the tire is worn out with a square profile.

Can motorcycle tires get damaged?

Even if you’re not riding very often , tires on a motorcycle can get damaged from sitting too long on concrete floors or not being properly inflated while they’re sitting. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide when you want to replace the tires. Either way, it’s a good idea to regularly inspect each tire individually and look for any signs …

Can you change your own motorcycle tires?

Alternatively, you could change your own motorcycle tires if you have a motorcycle tire changing tool and a decent workspace. In this post, we’ll be looking at when to change your motorcycle tires and the different factors to look out for.

Do motorcycle tires need to be changed?

Just like other consumables on your motorcycle, the tires are a component that need to be regularly inspected and changed. Once you start noticing wear beyond what’s reasonable you’ll have to book a time in to your mechanic and switch them out.

Where to find the age of a tire?

When it comes to the age of the tire, this information can be found on the sidewall. You’ll be able to see when the tire was manufactured and this will help you determine whether or not it needs to be replaced.

What If My Tire Is Old And Worn Out?

It will negatively influence its adherence to the asphalt, decrease the degree of traction and lengthen the meters needed to stop the bike when you have to brake.

How Do I Know If My Tires Are Worn Out?

To find out the wear rate of a tire you only have to look at the snitches or indicators that the different manufacturers include in the design.

Should I Replace Both Bike Tires At The Same Time?

Although it is advisable to change the front and rear wheels at the same time, technically it is not strictly necessary.

Is Putting Nitrogen In Tires Worth It?

Finally, our opinion about inflating tires with nitrogen, rather than with normal air, is that the differential we can obtain is practically invaluable.

What Happens If You Drive With Low Tire Pressure?

Riding with inadequate pressure can cause irregular wear, overheating of the internal casing and a greater risk of puncture or premature degradation of the tire.

1. Your Tires Are Cupped or Scalped

Cupping, also called scalping, is the first sign that you need to replace your motorcycle tires. It’s a problem that mainly occurs with front tires, but it can affect rear tires as well.

2. Your Tire is Not Fitting Properly

Good motorcycle tires should properly fit the rims. If they do not fit, you need to replace them immediately.

3. Your Tires Are Worn Out

This is another sign that you should not continue using your motorcycle tires.

4. Your Tires Have Uneven Tread Wear

Excessive and uneven tread wear is another sign that you need to buy new tires.

6. Your Tires Are Aged

New motorbike tires are more functional than old tires. The older your motorcycle tire gets, the higher the chances of it getting damaged.

Let Us Replace Your Tires at Harley-Davidson of The Woodlands

Damaged motorcycle tires will affect your riding experience and expose you to accidents, so you should always check them for various defects like punctures and cuppings. Once you note these signs, you should invest in new motorcycle tires that will serve your needs.

How to set a tire bead?

Setting the Bead. Once your tire is on the rim, you need to inflate it to set the bead. An air compressor is recommended to fill it up. When the bead sets, it will make a loud noise and pinch whatever fingers, toes, or clothing is nearby. Be safe during this step- the bead will set quickly and oftentimes without warning.

How to remove a bike wheel?

Removing the Wheel. The first thing you will need to do is get the bike in the air. You can use either a jack or a stand, each works provided it is set up safely and allows you to get the tires off the frame. Next, you will want to remove the chain and axle hardware, making sure to keep the pieces organized as you go.

Why mirror front tread pattern to rear tread pattern?

Most manufacturers mirror the front tread pattern to the rear pattern mainly to improve wear characteristics because they are subjected to different primary forces (braking on the front and acceleration on the rear). It is this pattern that also determines which direction the tires deflect water when the road is wet.

What is a tread indicator?

Tread indicators are level with the top of the tread groove

How to get tire off rim?

Work methodically on the tire, going section by section with your tools to work it off the rim, being careful not to cause damage as you go. Using your knee as a counter force helps keep the tire in place while you work with your hands. Once you have finished one side, flip it over and start working on the other. Eventually, the remaining part of the tire should slide off.

What to check before putting wheel back on frame?

Before you put the wheel back on the frame, check the tire for any leaks.

What does backwards tread do?

Additionally, the “backwards” tread helps reduce noise and vibration while you ride.

How Long Do Motorcycle Tires Last?

To answer the “how long do motorcycle tires last?” question, you first need to understand the factors that affect the lifespan of bike tires. These factors are widely varied and include:

What are the factors that determine a motorcycle tire change?

These factors include the riders pace, the setup of the suspension, the tire pressures you use , and the level of care you provide to your tires. Additional factors include tire wear patterns. Although you will be tempted to judge your tires by the tread, …

What does it mean when your motorcycle tires are cracked?

Although the required tread might be there, the sidewalls might have cracked. This cracking is typically referred to as dry rot, and it is a clear sign that the time is ripe for you to get a tire replacement.

How deep should a tire be?

1. Tread. First of all, you should check if your tires have tread. State and federal regulations dictate that your tires must have anywhere between 1/32 and 2/32 of tread depth. That said, the middle of your tire gets into the greatest contact with road surfaces. As such, this section tends to wear out before the rest of the tire.

How to check if Lincoln’s head is submerged?

A good trick to try would be the penny technique. Place a penny in the tread and check how far Abraham Lincoln’s head is submerged. If it isn’t, then you still have some time to use the tires before reaching out for replacements.

What causes uneven tire wear?

Over and under-inflation leads to uneven tire wear. Check your tires to see if there is any excessive wear on the sides or in the center of the tire if they are not adequately aired up.

Why do my bike tires crack?

c) Cracking. Like other parts of your bike, tires are not completely immune to the ravages of constant exposure to sunlight. In fact, if your tires have seen a good amount of sunlight, you are likely to see some cracking along the sidewalls or on the tread.