Every 5-6 years
As with most consumables,tires have a shelf life. 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 replacingevery 5-6 years. You can find this information as a 4 digit date code located on the sidewall of the tire.

How to know when to change motorcycle tires?

When To Replace Motorcycle TiresIs your motorcycle tire sidewall cracking? If your motorcycle tire sidewall is cracking it’s time to replace your tire,no matter shape the tire tread is in,or how …Do you have worn motorcycle tires? Of course,the most common reason for a motorcycle tire to need replacing is simply that tire is worn out. …Do you have uneven motorcycle tire wear? …More items…

When should I Change my mortorcycle tires?

Age of The Tire Age is an essential factor in determining how often replacing a motorcycle tyre should be. It is recommended that you should not use a tire for more thanfive years.

How old can motorcycle tires be and still be safe?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and official manufacturers suggest a tire is only 100% safe to use until it turns 5-6 years old. However, some admit that a tire can be operable up to 10 years if you check it for issues annually after the 5 th year.

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.

What does the Michelin Man sign on the side of the tire mean?

2. The legal tread wear limit has been reached. A Michelin Man symbol on the upper side of your tires means that they feature a tread wear indicator. Similar to little bumps, these can be found at the bottom of the main grooves.

How to tell if a tire is worn?

Worn tires can ruin your vehicle’s performance and even endanger you or your loved ones. It is recommended that you do a weekly inspection to check: 1 The state of the tires 2 The depth of the treads 3 Any damage due to impacts or any sign of unusual wear.

How to choose tires for a car?

Choose your tires in accordance with legal requirements and the kind of equipment recommended for your vehicle. For optimal performance, use tires with the same tread pattern for the front and back. Tires that have different designs, treads and wear patterns might affect the vehicle’s balance and stability. Never fit a vehicle with one radial tire and one non-radial tire unless specified by the manufacturer.

Why do tires wear out?

It can also occur as a result of incorrect tire pressure.

Why do you need to change your tires?

Six reasons to change your tires. 1. The tire has a puncture. Tires are durable and designed to withstand impacts, but they sometimes puncture. If you get a flat tire, it should be replaced by a professional mechanic. 2.

Why are tires so hard to predict?

3. Tires show signs of aging. It is difficult to predict a tire’s lifespan because it bears no relation to its manufacturing date. Tires that have never been used, or have only been used infrequently, may still show signs of aging.

Do you need to change tires before changing Michelin tires?

Michelin strongly advises you to change your tires before reaching this point. Past this point, there is no guarantee that your tires will keep you safe or deliver grip and performance, particularly on wet surfaces. 3. Tires show signs of aging.

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 Is It Time To Change The Motorcycle Tires?

These small points make our ride safe and stable when they are in good condition or, on the contrary , can become dangerous if they are worn or damaged. We are going to review when to change tires and some tricks to keep them in the best possible condition and extend their life.

What happens if you hit a tire hard?

Sometimes hitting hard against a curb, pothole or any other projection that causes extreme deformation of the tire can damage its internal structure causing a bump or egg-shaped protrusion on a sidewall that is very dangerous. It can affect stability unpredictably and even burst while running.

Why do tires bubble?

Tires are often exposed to significant amounts of heat and friction for lengthy periods . Highway driving is incredibly tough on tires during the summer months and can cause bubbles in the outer wall of the tire to form. Bubbles or cracks can be a sign of more trouble to come, so the safe bet is to replace tires when these irregularities form.

What does TWI mean on tires?

Look for the acronym TWI (which means tread wear indicator) on the side of the tire and look at that height you will see some projections inside the tread grooves. We advise not to even reach the wear indicator for safety. The legal limit of 1.6 mm is insufficient in heavy rain or puddles.

How does rubber affect tire performance?

A variation in the properties of the rubber compound affects grip, and both the amount of rubber in the tire and its aging have a negative influence on its performance. The tire progressively loses performance as a function of wear, and when we exceed a specific limit, it stops gripping, although there is still gum left.

How to store tires in sunlight?

When they are exposed to direct sunlight, store your tires in a dark area or protect them with something that does not let light through. Direct sunlight dries and degrades the rubber.

How deep should tires be?

The General Vehicle Regulations indicate that tires must have a depth of at least 1.6 mm in the grooves of the tread. To verify the state, the ideal is to use a depth gauge or coin, which can be purchased in spare parts stores and workshops, having all kinds, from cards with precision measurements to digital ones (focused on a more professional use).

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.

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 long do motorcycle tires last?

Many people don’t know that motorcycle tires aren’t designed to last as long as car tires. For tires with 5 years of use, manufacturers typically call for an annual inspection by a professional. For a tire that is 10 years old, even if the tread looks great, the manufacturers claim that the tire is at the end of it’s useful life …

What is the difference between hard and soft rubber on motorcycle tires?

A typical contact patch between your motorcycle tire and the pavement is about the size of a credit card. Hard tires are more likely to slip and slide, while soft rubber will grip the pavement. You need that grip to stay on your bike. Unfortunately, that extra grip comes at a price.

What does it mean when a bike tire is cracked?

The first tire has tread, but cracking along the sidewalls (commonly known as dry rot) is a clear sign the tire must be replaced. Tire number two has a worn out, square profile. That tire is not going to feel good when you lean to the bike into a turn. That contact patch on the "corner" of that tire will be very small.

Where are the wear indicators on motorcycle tires?

Many motorcycle tires have wear indicators cast into the rubber tread grooves. Look for one of the tire grooves with a raised segment of rubber. These groves are typically located off the center of the tire. That raised segment indicates the manufacturer’s lowest amount of tread to remain safe. Most manufacturers will take the position …

How to tell when new tires are due?

Here is a simple guide to determine if you are due for new tires: 1. Check to see if you have tread. Federal and state regulations dictate that you must have 1/32" to 2/32" of tread depth. The middle of the tire sees the most contact with the road and usually wears out first.

Where is the tire stamp on a tire?

Look for this tire stamp on the sidewall of the tire. Modern tires have a 4 digit code that tells you it was manufactured the 43rd week of 2010.

Can you tread a 10 year old tire?

You can have tread on a 10 year old tire and it is still unsafe because the rubber is hard. To get a quick idea of the tires hardness, stick your thumbnail into the rubber, it should feel soft and compliant. For a reference, find a bike with a new tire and stick your thumbnail into that.

What happens to tires as they age?

Here’s what happens as tires age. Tires are subject to a process called oxidation, whereby oxygen interacts with compounds in the rubber causing them to harden and eventually become brittle. As the rubber oxidization increases over time, tire performance decreases.

How long does it take for a tire to be fresh?

A one-year-old tire is considered very, very fresh. In fact, most tire companies put the "sell by" date somewhere out around five years from the date of manufacture. So unless you don’t expect to wear the tire out within five years from the date that’s stamped on the sidewall, don’t sweat it.

How old should a tire be to replace it?

Again, most tire manufacturers advise replacing a tire after it’s around five years old. You might not be able to tell the age by glancing at it, but if you notice cracks along the carcass of the tire, it needs to be replaced immediately. Too bad the ole sniff test doesn’t work here as it does with that carton of milk.

Do tires have a use by date?

Tires don’t have a “use by” date stamped on them like perishable foodstuffs because there are a lot of variables that determine the rate at which a tire degrades. However, tires do have a four-digit number stamped on the sidewalls indicating the week and year they were manufactured.

Where to find the date code on a Dunlop Q3?

Look for the date code in an oval stamp on your tire’s sidewall. The numbers represent the week and year of manufacture. Minted in the 13th week of 2017, this Dunlop Q3+ is as fresh as they come. Photo: Julia LaPalme

Do motorcycle tires expire?

Motorcycle tires wear out from use, but they can also expire from age. Keeping tabs on the age of your tires is important, but if you think your tires need to be as fresh as the contents of your fridge, we’d like to disabuse you of that myth.

Is there milk in motorcycle tires?

While it’s good to be cautious when it comes to the condition of your motorcycle tires, let’s be clear: Tires aren’t milk, and it seems some consumers are obsessed with only buying tires that have a very recent date code.