From pressures to tread depth; it’s essential to know the warning signs of compromised tyres. Your motorcycle tyres do far more than keep your bike moving. They control your braking, cornering, acceleration and stability, not to mention through a variety of weather conditions.
October is Tyre Safety Month - an annual national awareness campaign to highlight the importance of correct tyre maintenance and road safety. Established in 2010 by the charity TyreSafe, its goal is to reduce the number of tyre-related accidents on UK roads. Vertu is proud to support the campaign and help raise awareness of the critical importance of tyre safety.
Regular motorcycle tyre checks are one of the simplest and most important safety check habits a rider can build, and there is no better time to start than October, as the cold weather rolls in. If you think your tyres need attention, contact your local Vertu Motorcycles dealership for servicing and replacement.
Find your local Vertu Motorcycles dealership
Why motorcycle tyres matter
While tyres are critical components of any vehicle, motorcycles rely on their performance to a much higher level. Worn, damaged or even just underinflated tyres can affect corner stability and increase stopping distances due to drastically less grip. Before setting out on your ride out, always check your tyres. Here’s what to look for:
How to check your motorcycle tyres
A quick inspection before riding can help spot problems early.
1. Check tread depth
For the most accurate results, use a tread depth gauge and inspect both the centre and shoulders of the tyre. There are also wear indicators on most tyres, inside the groove of the tyres. Once they start to wear, it’s time to change.
For motorcycles over 50cc the law requires a minimum tread depth of 1mm across at least three-quarters of the tyre width and around the entire circumference of the tyre. No flat spots allowed. For motorcycles up to 50cc, the original tread pattern must remain clearly visible.
While these are the legal minimums, that doesn’t mean you should push it to the minimum. Many tyre specialists recommend changing the tyres earlier to keep the optimum performance of your tyres and make your runs more responsive and safer.
Also consider that uneven wear may indicate incorrect tyre pressure, suspension issues, or poor wheel alignment. Or perhaps just that you have an aggressive riding style and need to factor that into your tyre purchasing routine!
2. Inspect for cracks, cuts and bulges
Look closely for sidewall cracking, splits in the tread, bulges or deformities, and embedded objects such as nails or stones.
Cracking is often a sign of rubber ageing, changing temperatures and exposure. If there’s a bulge, there is internal structural damage, and it should be inspected immediately by a technician.
3. Monitor tyre pressure
Use a pressure gauge every week to check pressures, and always when the tyres are cold. If you’re carrying extra weight like pillion passengers or luggage loads, recheck the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct pressures before heading out.
Tyre pressure is a finely tuned balance that affects more than you think. Your stability, cornering response, braking performance, tyre lifespan and fuel economy are all affected. What could be a finely tuned machine turns into a lame duck, all because the tyre pressure is slowing you down.
4. Watch for changes in handling
There are early warning signs that your tyres are on their way out. If you feel increased vibration, heavy or vague steering, unstable cornering or longer stopping distances, then it’s time for an urgent tyre check.
Keep your motorcycle safe on the road
The tyres on your motorcycle are one of the most important safety aspects for every rider. Keeping them well maintained, monitored and replaced in a timely manner means that you stay safe on the ride and your bike performs just as it should.
For inspections from our expert technicians, contact your local Vertu Motorcycles dealership to book an appointment for your bike.
- Motorcycles
- Ducati Motorcycles
- Honda Motorcycles