Tyre Tips

Mileage

We are now in a new generation when it comes to motorcycle, moped and even scooter tyres to a degree, where we want the tyres to last longer. suppose it was always the case, but now it is actually possible without compromising on grip, because if you think about it, mileage and grip are opposite sides of the coin. This has been achieved by the development of dual compound technology in bike tyres. What this basically means, in the most simplest terms, is that the new generation of motorbike tyres have a harder centre compound when the bike is upright, usually when you commute or are on the motorway. The compound heats up fast and gets softer as you move towards the edges of the tyre thus giving you that extra grip when cornering.

Tyre Pressure

Regularly check the pressure on each tyre using an accurate tyre gauge. Be sure to do this when the tyres are cold as the pressure will increase when they heat up with use on the tarmac. Try and maintain the pressure recommended in your bike manufacturer’s manual. Doing this will ensure that your bike will perform to it’s optimum level and be more economical.

Balancing

Always good to have your wheels balanced especially after fitting new tyres. Very important if you have a high speed bike as unbalanced wheels could really afftect handling, something you don’t need when going fast! Having wheels balanced also helps with the even wear of the tyre hence giving value for money and saving on fuel consumption.

Integrity

Inspect your tyres for an obvious problems or defects such as cuts or bulges but at the same time look out for any signes of uneven wear.

Tread Depth

Worn tyres influence the handling of a motorcycle and thereby reduce the performance required for safe riding. The recommended minimum tread depth is 2mm.

Directional Arrows

Where a tyre has a direction of rotation arrow moulded upon it, the tyre must be fitted so that the relevant front or rear tyre follows the direction of rotation when the motorcycle is being ridden forward. Road handling and tyre wear may worsen, or damage to the tyre can occur in extreme circumstances if these instructions are not followed.

Tyre Identification

The tyre identification number which has been used thus far gives information on:
The tyre width (normally mm or inches) eg 180
The ratio: height. It is a ratio because this number is a % of the first number. eg 55
The registered maximum speed. This comes in letter variations. eg S 112mph, H 129mph, V 149mph or ZR (see speed rating below)
The rim diameter in inches. eg 17
The tyre load. This number is not literal. eg 73 – 365kg

Speed Symbol