Extending the Life of Your Motorcycle Tyres

You’ve glanced down at your motorcycle tyres and noticed the tread is starting to look a little too thin for comfort. Panic sets in as you think about the cost of replacements…

You can actually keep those tyres rolling for a little longer than you might think. Motorcycle tyres are basically the lifeline of your ride, but they work hard and wear out. By understanding what causes that wear – be it road conditions, riding habits, or even simple things like air pressure – you can extend the life of your tyres and keep your wallet a little heavier.

As the experts in motorcycle tyres, Melbourne turn to us for expert advice; we’re here to let you know that with good daily habits, you can make a big difference to your tyre’s condition over time. 

Staying on top of tyre wear takes a little more than eyeballing the tread. A few key signs can help you figure out when to take action before things get sketchy on the road.

Tread depth

One of the easiest ways to check the health of your tyres is by monitoring the tread depth. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but you don’t want to wait until you hit that mark. For a smoother, safer ride, it’s better to swap them out when they’re getting close to that point. Thin tread equals less grip, which means more slippage – not ideal for keeping things upright.

Wear bars

Most tyres come with wear bars; built-in indicators that start showing up when your tread has worn down to a certain point. When you see them poking through, it’s your tyre’s way of telling you it’s time for a replacement. 

Uneven wear

If one side of your tyre is looking more worn down than the other, that’s a red flag. It could mean your tyre pressure is off or you have an alignment issue. Uneven wear shortens the life of your tyres and impacts your ride’s handling.

Cracks and bulges

Small cosmetic issues can actually be signs of structural damage. A bulging tyre is especially dangerous, as it could blow out while you’re riding.

To get the most out of your tyres and extend the average tyre life, we recommend considering the following:

Regular checks to ensure the right pressure 

Tyre pressure is everything. Running your tyres under-inflated can cost you more than just fuel efficiency—it can seriously shorten their lifespan. Check your tyre pressure at least once a week when the tyres are cold.

Choosing the right tyre for your riding style

Your riding style plays a big role in how quickly your tyres wear out. Sport tyres are great for gripping the road during aggressive riding, but they won’t last as long as touring tyres, built for durability and comfort on longer trips. Ask the Tyreman M/C team about the best fit for how and where you ride.

Maintaining wheel alignment

One of the sneaky culprits behind premature tyre wear is poor wheel alignment. A misaligned chain can cause uneven wear, so you’ll be back at the shop buying new tyres sooner than you’d like. Unfortunately, many riders don’t check their chain tension and alignment as often as they should. Make it a habit to inspect your chain regularly and adjust it according to your bike’s manual. A quick tweak can help your tyres wear more evenly, extending their life.

Avoid overloading and harsh braking

Overloading your bike or riding too aggressively can generate a lot of heat, speeding up tyre wear. Be mindful of your motorcycle’s load limits and try to ease up on the throttle and brakes. Smoother acceleration, braking, and cornering will help reduce heat buildup and keep your tyres in better shape for longer.

When not riding, proper storage can also help keep your motorcycle and scooter tyres in top shape. If you plan on staying off your bike for a while, inflate the tyres to slightly above the recommended pressure to avoid flat spots from forming. If you want to go the extra mile, use tyre stands to take some of the load off. Always store your bike in a cool, dry spot, far away from direct sunlight. Too much heat or moisture can mess with the rubber compound, causing it to degrade faster than you’d like.

If you’re parking your bike outdoors, even for short periods, cover it with a UV-resistant motorcycle cover. The preferred option is always to park it inside to keep those tyres fresh for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my motorcycle tyre pressure?

We recommend checking your tyre pressure every two weeks or prior to any long journey. Always check when the tyres are cold (not ridden on for two hours or less than 3 km at a reduced speed).

How can I clean my motorcycle tyres?

We always tell people to avoid cleaning products with chemicals. They weaken the tyre over time, but you can avoid this by using a water and basic soap combination. Warm water, a stiff brush and under no circumstances should you use bleach. Motorcycle tyre sealants can be applied afterwards for extra care.

How does heat affect motorcycle tyres?

Extreme heat is only a problem when you have an under inflated tyre. When a tyre is fully inflated, little to no heat is generated. Tyres are designed to endure an expanse of temperatures, and some are even designed specifically for high-friction, like racing or high-performance options. Leaving your tyres to baste away in the sun is a different situation, however, and not one that is conducive to a long tyre lifespan. Keep your ride under shelter when it is dormant, and you’ll enjoy a much higher level of performance during your ride.