Motorcycle Tire Maintenance 101

The overall performance of your motorcycle depends on the condition of your tires. Defective tires can pose a safety hazard, and lead to more costly repairs down the road. When routine maintenance has been neglected, tire failure can sneak up on you without warning! These tire maintenance tips from Motorcycle Maxx can spare you from that heartbreak.

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Maintain Proper Inflation

Tire inflation is measured in pounds per square inch, abbreviated psi. The appropriate psi level for your tires will be specified in the owner’s manual. To make sure this level is maintained, check the air pressure in your tires at least once a week, and adjust the inflation as needed.

To get the most accurate reading, you should perform this check when the tires are cold – that is, when the motorcycle has been parked for at least three hours, or when it has been ridden less than a mile at moderate speed. If you must reinflate when the tires are hot, add 4 psi more than the recommended level, and check the level again when the tires are cold.

Check for Damage

Tires will inevitably lose pressure over time, but a loss of more than 2 psi per month could indicate leakage. If your motorcycle tires seem to be losing pressure at an abnormally fast rate, you should perform a thorough inspection to identify the source of the problem.

Leakage can result from a damaged valve stem or core. These components can be replaced easily enough when mounting new tires, and you can add caps to protect them from corrosive elements like dirt and moisture.

Regularly inspect the tire treads and sidewalls for indications of damage, including cracks and bruises that could cause leakage. Tire damage is not always visible, so if you have any reason for concern, you should consult a mechanic. It might be necessary to remove the tire from the wheel to perform a full inspection.

Stay Within Your Limits

To keep your motorcycles tires in the best possible condition, stay within the load limit recommended by the manufacturer. This is important to keep in mind when you are packing for a road trip, or riding with a friend. Calculate the total weight of all your cargo and passengers, and check that against the load limit. If you have added any accessories to your motorcycle, the weight of those components should also be factored into that equation.

Looking for more expert advice on motorcycle maintenance? Feel free to consult the qualified staff at Motorcycle Maxx! You can find us in Lewis Center, OH.