Maintenance 101: When to Replace Motorcycle Tires

If you’re new to motorcycle ownership, you may not realize just how important it is to maintain and replace your model’s wheels when the time is right. Because balance and grip are such an important part of steering a motorcycle, a set of tires that’s well past their prime can prove to be a serious safety hazard. To be sure you’re caring for your wheels correctly, and aren’t pushing your tires too far beyond their limits, we recommend reading through the informative article below.

Regular Inspections 

It’s not always easy figuring out when to replace your motorcycle’s tires. Many of the early signs often appear as small details that a majority of motorcycle owners fail to notice. To be sure you’re replacing your motorcycle’s tires in time, we advise inspecting them weekly for signs of movement, loss of shape, uneven wear, or deformed rubber—such as marbling. While you’re giving your wheels a quick once over, it may also be wise to quickly check their air pressure. Incorrect PSI can often lead to long-term issues and require you to replace your tires much sooner than you initially expected. 

Immediate Replacement

If you notice any of the issues listed above appearing on your motorcycle’s tires, it’s important that you replace them very soon. However, there are some scenarios that will require you to change your motorcycle’s tires almost immediately in order to ensure the safety of both you and your vehicle. If you notice your tread has fallen below two centimeters, you’ve recently driven through some type of corrosive oil, or you’ve had to patch your tire, you’ll want to rush over to your nearest tire shop as soon as possible to have them replaced. You’ll also want to pay close attention to the date at which you buy your tires, as it’s advised to have them changed every ten years regardless of their condition. 

Replacing old tires isn’t exactly an easy process, and often requires a number of important tools, and a bit of elbow grease. If you’re having trouble getting your old set off and your new wheels on, you’re welcome to visit us here at North County Indian Motorcycle® and take advantage of our helpful service centers! We have two convenient locations in San Marcos and Corona, California, and we proudly serve the nearby cities of San Diego and Oceanside.