A Guide to Motorcycle Tire Care
The best motorcycle in the world won’t get very far without good tires. That’s why it’s vital to take care of yours before and after each ride. Motorcycle tire maintenance is easy if you pay attention to these important details. If you have any questions about motorcycle service, visit Cycles of Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida, serving Orlando and St. Augustine, Florida.
Be Sure Your Tires Are Properly Inflated
Properly inflated tires will give you a much smoother ride and will also improve your gas mileage. The PSI pressures stamped on your tires’ sidewalls apply to maximum loads, and may or may not be the same as the manufacturers’ recommended levels listed in your manual. Be sure to also carry a tire gauge with you at all times.
Check Your Valves for Leaks
Old or damaged valve stems can lead to slow leaks. Be sure to replace your valve stems each time you mount up a new set of tires, and any time they become damaged. The caps on your valve stems help keep dirt and moisture out of both the valves and the tire, so be sure to replace them promptly if they get lost.
Don’t Exceed Recommended Load Limits
The maximum load rating for your motorcycle will be listed in your user’s manual, and a maximum load rating will be stamped on your tires. If the load limit is different for the tire and the bike, observe the lower limit.
Check the Tread on Your Tires
If you are mounting new tires on your motorcycle, it typically takes at least 100 miles to “scuff in” the treads. That’s why it’s important to ride with caution until your tires find their optimum grip on the road. Avoid sudden stops and starts, and use caution around corners until you get accustomed to the way that your bike’s handling is affected by the new tires.
As you get more mileage on your tires, be sure that they still have enough depth between the treads. Your tires have built-in indicators when the tread depth is worn to 1/32nd of an inch or less. If those indicators become visible, you should replace your tires immediately.
Inspect Your Tires at the First Sign of Trouble
No one knows the way your bike handles better than you do, so be sure to pay attention to anything that doesn’t feel right. If you experience a loss of traction on a smooth road or feel an unusual vibration, take a few minutes to pull over and take a look for yourself.
Come visit our Cycles of Jacksonville dealership in Jacksonville, Florida, for service in the Orlando and St. Augustine, Florida, area, and to see our current inventory of motorcycles for sale.