They are responsible for your safety on the road, so you shouldn’t skimp on their purchase. Motorcycle tires, as they’re called, will last a long time, providing protection and comfort on the road, if you take good care of them. Here are some tips on how to keep them in top condition.

Check the condition of the tread

Checking the condition of your tires’ tread is a must, not only before long trips but also for everyday use. Pay attention to the depth of the grooves, and if it reaches 1.6mm, it’s time to replace your tires

Why is it so important to check the condition of the tread regularly?

• The better the tread, the better the grip, and the better the grip, the better the braking performance.
• Tread grooves are designed to channel water away from underneath the tire, so if you want to reduce the risk of losing control of your vehicle, you should keep them in mind.

Wheel geometry

Speaking of tread, it’s the wheel alignment that’s responsible for its proper wear. That’s why alignment is so important, and for that you need the help of professionals. A visit to a professional aligner will allow you to make sure that the wheels are aligned correctly and that the tread is wearing evenly. This not only saves you money (by extending the life of the tire) but also means that you’re safer on the road.

Wheel balancing

It’s an undeniable fact that wheel balancing should be performed every time a tire is changed, but why is it so important? What does proper wheel balancing actually guarantee?

• It extends the life of the tire and chassis.
• Eliminates vibration.
• Protects the suspension and bearings of your bike from damage.

Check air pressure regularly

Although it’s best to check tire pressures once a month, if you’re on a long journey it’s a good idea to check for any changes, whether through damage that’s not visible at first glance or changes in temperature

Why should I check my tire pressure?

• Having the correct inflation pressure reduces the risk of losing control of your vehicle.
• Correct inflation also saves you money – it affects the life of your tires against damage, the number of miles you drive without having to change them and your fuel consumption.

Tire repairs

It’s not worth risking tire repair on your own if you’re not qualified to do it. It’s better to leave it to the professionals, as you can only make the situation worse yourself. If you have any doubts about the condition of your tires, trust the professionals and go to a proper service. You need to be 100% sure that your motorcycle is in good working order and fit to ride, as the risk is not worth the savings

Proper storage

When looking after your Michelin motorcycle tires, you need to think not only about their condition on the road, but also about how you store them. What to look out for when you’re forced to store your tires in the garage?

• Choose a dry and cool place, UV rays and heat cause the rubber to age.
• Special protective covers are a good option, but plastic bags are not recommended.
• Don’t place your tires directly on the floor, if you don’t have a rack or shelf available it’s a good idea to put a cardboard box underneath.

Summary

Taking good care of your tires not only prolongs their life and increases your comfort, but above all ensures greater safety on the road. A well-maintained motorcycle is less likely to cause an accident and that goes for your tires too, so next time you check the condition of your vehicle, pay special attention to your tires.

(Photo: pixabay.com)