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When to Change Bike Tyres? 7 Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Team AckoJan 17, 2024

Bikes have only twopoints of contact (the two tyres) with the road surface; therefore, the tyres must be of the right quality, shape, and compound. The quality of the ride and handling depends a great deal upon the condition of the tyres. If they are in poor condition, they can diminish your vehicle's performance and cause fatal accidents. It is, therefore, essential to change bike tyres at the right time for safe riding. Read on to learn when to replace motorcycle tyres and apparent signs you should not ignore.

Contents

When is the right time to change bike tyres?
How to choose the best tyre for your two-wheeler
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the right time to change bike tyres?

Here are a few warning signs regarding bad tyre health.

1. Excessive tread wear

Tyres have grooves known as tread that help them grip the road. Due to wear and tear, the tread degrades. This makes it difficult to steer the bike. It also increases the braking time and reduces traction.

Here are three ways to check the tread of the bike tyre.

Tread wear signs: Tyre manufacturers mark the tyre with a Tyre Wear Indicator on the sidewall. Typically, the indicator is an arrow sign indicating the wear's extent and the maximum level, after which you need to change the bike tyre.
Tread gauges: These are simple tools to check the tread depth. They let you measure the thickness of the motorcycle tyre and know the exact measurement.

2. Tyre age

Regardless of how many kilometres you have travelled, the bike tyres degrade over time and become prone to repairs. Storage, environmental conditions, and maintenance are vital in determining how long the tyre will last.

While there is no set age limit for two-wheeler tyres, it is recommended that you change them every four to five years after the manufacturing date. Please note that you should avoid using tyres that are more than five years old.

3. Drop in the tyre’s air pressure

An unexpected drop in the tyre’s air pressure indicates a weak tyre. There could be several reasons for a weak tyre, such as a damaged tyre, air leaks, hidden cracks, or an old valve stem. If the two-wheeler tyre keeps losing air pressure even after repairing a puncture, chances are that the tyre is weak and requires a change.

4. Unusual pattern of wear and tear

You may notice wear and tear on the tyre in certain places. It could be at the centre or on the shoulder of the tyre. This happens due to mechanical issues such as worn-out shock absorbers or a wheel alignment issue. If there are irregular wear and tear signs on the tyre, then it is time to change it.

5. Frequent punctures

With an old or worn-out tyre, there are more chances of punctures. Over a period of time, the tread wears out and pointed objects such as nails, broken glass, or metal wires can easily puncture the tyre. Hence, if you experience frequent punctures on your bike tyres, it is time to get new bike tyres to avoid unnecessary stress.

6. Cracks on the sidewall

Cracks on the tyre sidewall can be due to non-usage of the vehicle, environmental conditions, or parking the two-wheeler under direct sunlight. They may appear small and less harmful but can lead to serious air leaks over a period of time. These cracks are unrepairable; hence, it is prudent to change the tyre.

7. Bulges on the tyre

You may notice blisters or bulges on the surface of the motorcycle tyre. These can be considered dangerous since they may lead to a tyre burst. So, if you observe bulges on the bike tyre, ensure you replace it.

How to choose the best tyre for your two-wheeler

A new tyre with sufficient tread gives the bike maximum traction for braking and acceleration. It ensures you get enough grip, especially on the curves. Apart from the adequate tread, here are some other factors that you need to consider while choosing the best tyre for your bike.

Buy from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM).
Stick to the recommended size of the tyre as specified by the manufacturer.
Ensure the size you buy fits the bike rim.
Opt for tubeless tyres (if possible) for a stress-free ride.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the answers to some of the common questions about bike tyre replacement.

Can I use a tubeless tyre instead of a tube tyre for my bike?

It depends on your bike wheel. If it is made to hold a tubeless tyre, you can replace the tube tyre with a tubeless one. However, if the wheel is not made for tubeless tyres, you cannot use it.

How many kilometres does a bike tyre last?

The life of a bike tyre depends on the type of motorcycle, the compound used to manufacture it and the bike-riding style. Generally, the tyre of a commuter bike can last for about 30,000 to 40,000 kms, based on the riding style and terrain.

Can I put larger wheels and tyres on my two-wheeler?

You can put larger wheels and tyres on your bike, provided it has enough clearance around the tyre. Additionally, multiple parts are directly or indirectly connected to the tyre. They may require tweaking or component change if you want to use a larger wheel and tyre. Hence, it is recommended that you stick to the manufacturer’s specifications for better results.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on industry experience and several secondary sources on the internet. Please speak to an expert before making decisions based on the shared content.

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