News DH Superbikes

Your tyres are the only contact between the bike and the road, so they deserve regular attention. A few minutes each week can prevent a failed MOT, an expensive replacement or, more importantly, a crash. This guide covers legal tread depth, pressures, age and damage, following advice from TyreSafe.

Why tyres matter so much

A motorbike's contact patch, the part of each tyre actually touching the road, is roughly the size of a small card or less. That small area has to cope with braking, accelerating and leaning, all at once. Worn, damaged or incorrectly inflated tyres cut that grip, especially in the wet.

Legal tread depth

For motorcycles over 50cc, the legal minimum is 1mm across three quarters of the tread width, with visible tread across the remaining quarter. Many riders replace tyres well before the limit, because grip drops as tread wears, especially in the wet.

Most tyres have tread wear indicators in the grooves. When the tyre wears level with them, replace it. Riding on illegal tyres can bring fines and penalty points, and can cause an MOT failure.

How to check tread

• Look at the wear indicators in the main grooves.
• Check across the whole width of the tyre, not just the centre. Riders who commute in straight lines wear the centre, while riders who corner hard wear the sides.
• Check both tyres. The rear usually wears faster.
• Look for flat spots or squared-off profiles.

Check pressures every week

• Check when the tyres are cold, using an accurate gauge.
• Use the figure in your owner's manual or from the manufacturer.
• Adjust for riding solo or with a pillion, as the manual advises.
• Check the valve caps are fitted and the valves are in good condition.

Under-inflated and over-inflated tyres are both unsafe and wear faster. They also affect handling and fuel use. Temperature changes can alter pressure, so check more often as the weather turns cold.

Check the age and condition

Older tyres, and tyres on a bike that has sat unused, can crack, especially if left in the cold or uncovered. Rubber ages even when the tyre has plenty of tread, so do not judge a tyre on tread alone. Look for:

• Cuts, bulges or embedded objects
• Cracking in the tread or sidewall
• Uneven wear
• Air loss, unusual noise or vibration

A lump or bulge may mean internal damage, so have it checked straight away. After a hard knock from a pothole, kerb or speed bump, ask a tyre professional to inspect it, because the damage may not be visible. Replace cracked or bent rims and old or damaged valve stems.

Bedding in new tyres

New tyres can have a slippery surface from the moulding process. Ride gently and avoid hard braking and heavy leaning for the first few miles. Ask your tyre fitter for advice about running in your particular tyres.

Tyres and the MOT

Tyres and wheels are part of the MOT. A tyre below the legal limit or with serious damage can cause a failure. See our motorcycle MOT guide for what is checked and what happens on a fail.

Tyres in wet and cold weather

Cold tyres give less grip, and wet roads reduce it further. Read our guide to riding safely in wet and cold weather. If your bike is stored over winter, see our storage tips to avoid flat spots and cracking.

Buying a used bike? Check the tyres

Tyres are an easy way to judge how well a bike has been looked after, and replacing a pair is a real cost. Include them in your buying checklist.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I replace my tyres? There is no fixed time. It depends on mileage, riding style, tyre type and age. Check tread, condition and age regularly.

Can I mix tyre brands? Check your handbook and ask a tyre specialist, as some manufacturers recommend matched pairs.

Is it safe to repair a puncture? Ask a tyre professional. Many do not recommend repairs on motorcycle tyres.

Need new tyres or a check before winter? Contact DH Superbikes.