Local Regulations: Understanding Melbourne’s Motorcycle Tyre Laws

If you ride in Melbourne, staying across current motorcycle tyre laws is essential. Tyre condition plays a major role in rider safety, and it’s also one of the most common reasons bikes fail roadworthy inspections. Whether you’re commuting daily, riding to Phillip Island, or simply heading out on weekend tours, non-compliant tyres can lead to fines or defect notices.

That’s where Tyreman M/C comes in. We help Melbourne riders stay safe and street-legal with professional tyre fittings, pressure checks, and compliant brands approved for Victorian roads.

Victoria’s motorcycle laws are clear when it comes to tyre safety and they’re enforced during both police stops and roadworthy inspections. Here’s what every rider should know:

Minimum Legal Tread Depth

Tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.5mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Any less than that and your bike will be considered unroadworthy, regardless of how it feels to ride.

Tyre Marking Requirements

Your motorcycle tyres must match the size, speed rating, and load index listed on your compliance plate or owner’s manual. Using the wrong type of tyre even if it fits can result in a failed roadworthy or a roadside defect notice.

Roadworthy Impact

Tyres that are too worn, under-inflated, or incorrectly fitted can all cause your bike to fail its Roadworthy Certificate (RWC) inspection. That includes sidewall cracking, uneven wear, and mismatched tyre types between the front and rear.

Need help passing a roadworthy? Visit Tyreman M/C for a legal tyre check before booking your RWC.

Keeping your tyres at the correct pressure isn’t just about performance, it’s a legal and safety requirement.

Why Pressure Matters

Incorrect tyre pressure reduces grip, increases braking distances, and accelerates wear. Under VicRoads guidelines, all motorcycles must be kept in roadworthy condition which includes tyre inflation.

Recommended PSI Ranges

• Sports bikes: 36–42 PSI (depending on load) 
• Cruisers: 32–40 PSI 
• Touring bikes: 36–42 PSI
  

Always refer to your manufacturer’s specs for exact values. At Tyreman M/C, we’re happy to check your pressure during a service or fitting.

Common Pressure Mistakes

• Not adjusting for cold mornings or hot summer roads 
• Forgetting to increase PSI for pillion passengers or luggage 
• Using car tyre gauges (less accurate for motorcycles) 
• A quick pressure check before a long ride can prevent unnecessary risk.

Even if your bike feels fine, the tyres may not meet legal standards. Here are common issues we see:

Signs of Non-Compliance

• Visible bald spots or low tread

• Sidewall cracking or dry rot

• Uneven wear from misaligned wheels

• Mixing road and off-road tyres
  

Street-Legal vs Track-Only Tyres

Some tyres are designed purely for track use and won’t meet motorcycle tyre regulations for public roads. These often lack required markings or have ultra-soft compounds unsuitable for daily riding.

Age Matters

Even if your tyre still has tread, the rubber can degrade over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres that are 5 years or older, regardless of use.

Get a Professional Opinion

Motorcycle tyre fitting and tyre balancing by a trained technician ensures your tyres are safe, legal, and suited to your riding style. At Tyreman M/C, we take care of the legal details so you can focus on the ride.

We’re more than just a tyre shop. We’re Melbourne’s trusted partner for legal, high-performance motorcycle tyres.

What We Offer:

• Free tyre inspections and pressure checks 

• Roadworthy-compliant tyre fittings

• Wide stock of VIC-approved road and touring tyres

• Pre-ride prep for long-distance events or track days
  

Whether you’re due for an RWC, planning a trip down the Great Ocean Road, or just want peace of mind, we’ll make sure your tyres meet all legal requirements and perform at their best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal tread depth for motorcycle tyres in Victoria?

Motorcycle tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.5 mm across the central section. Tyreman M/C can check this during routine inspections.

Can I fail a roadworthy if my motorcycle tyres are too old?

Yes. Tyres older than 5 years, even with good tread may be considered unsafe. We recommend checking the DOT date stamp and replacing them if needed.

Are there fines for incorrect motorcycle tyre pressure?

While there’s no standalone fine for pressure alone, riding with under- or over-inflated tyres can result in a defect notice if it’s deemed unsafe.

What tyres are legal for road use in Victoria?

Only ADR-approved tyres are legal. They must match the size, speed rating and load index listed on your compliance plate. Avoid track-only tyres on public roads.

Can Tyreman M/C help me choose road-compliant tyres?

Absolutely. We stock a wide range of tyres designed for Melbourne roads and help riders stay compliant with all motorcycle tyre laws and regulations in Victoria.