How to Know When It’s Time for New Motorcycle Tires

A motorcycle affords you a feeling of freedom that most other vehicles cannot. Any experienced rider knows how to protect themselves on their bike – they wear a helmet and are careful not to put themselves in anyone’s blind spot.

But one danger a biker may not consider is riding on failing tires that need to be replaced. Damaged or worn-out tires can slow you down, make your bike less fuel efficient and, ultimately, cause an accident. Here are some common signs that will tell you when it’s time to get new tires:

Signs of Aging

There’s not exactly a hard and fast rule about how many miles you have to drive or years that have to go by before you’re due for new tires. The lifespan will depend on a variety of factors, such as storage, weather conditions, speed, maintenance and the style you ride, among other things.

At the very least, you should regularly check for any visible signs of aging every few weeks. Additionally, you should have a professional check your tires every five years to ensure they’re still in good condition. After a decade, it’s wise to get new tires regardless of the condition of the old ones.

Tread

Chances are, your tires will feature a tread wear indicator. This will allow you to easily see how much tread wear has occurred and how close you are to needing replacement tires. In most states, the tread depth legal limit is 2/32 of an inch. When it gets to this level, it’s time for new tires.

Damage

Among the worst things that can happen to your tire is a puncture. When that happens, you shouldn’t ride again until the tire has been replaced. Other problems that may pop up include cracks in the sidewall and uneven wear, generally caused by other issues with your motorcycle. You should periodically check for such issues as it’s not safe to drive with these problems.

If you’re in need of new tires or just general motorcycle repair and maintenance in the Henderson, NV area, Master Tech Automotive and Cycle Repair can help you. Our team of skilled mechanics will get you back on the road in no time. Call 702-641-9389 today to set up your appointment!