Motorcycle Tires

Your motorcycle tires are a crucial part of your riding experience. Without them, you would never leave your driveway. They are often a neglected part of maintenance. But there are easy ways you can take care of them to ensure they last longer, which saves you money on replacements.

Below we cover a beginner's guide to understanding and caring for motorcycle tires. If you have any questions or need to get a bike serviced, visit Biggs Harley-Davidson. Our dealership is located in San Marcos, California near San Diego, Oceanside, and Poway.

Components of a Tire

Tires are made up of a few key parts. First, there is the tread. This grips the road and provides you with the traction you need. Second, there is the sidewall, which is the side of the tire corresponding to the height and aspect ratio. Its purpose is to provide support and handling. Next, the bead grips the rim and is found on the edge of the tire. Then there is the valve stem, which relates to inflation. The rest of the tire is the carcass.

Tire Types

There are almost as many tires as there are motorcycles! They come in a variety of sizes, features, materials, and compatibility with different models. This gives you plenty of opportunity to find the ideal option for your unique riding needs.

For example, those who prefer off-road adventures can seek out dual sport tires. These give the grip you need to conquer terrain such as sand or gravel. Those who use their bike to get to work each day can use commuter models that are made to give better gas mileage. Adrenaline junkies can benefit from superbike tires that provide great grip and acceleration.

As you shop, a great place to start is the manufacturer's recommendations. After all, who better to get tire advice from than the person who made the bike? If you want to branch out from the default option, consider what your riding style is and what you'll need from your purchase. Talking to an expert, such as the staff at Biggs Harley-Davidson, can help give you insight as to what options best suit your unique needs.

Tire Maintenance

The better you care for your tires, the longer they will last. This will save you money since you'll need to replace them much less often. Preventative maintenance can be quick and simple and save you headaches down the road.

Start by regularly washing your tires. This gets rid of the caked-on gunk that can lead to damage if left on for too long. Next, regularly check your tire inflation. This ensures the forces pushing down on the tread gets evenly distributed, which keeps wear patterns regular. It'll extend the life of your tread, improve your fuel economy, and lead to a more comfortable ride. Your owner's manual will tell you what pressure it should be at and you can use a tire pressure gauge to see how yours stacks up. Finally, measure your tread regularly. It gets worn down as you ride and will eventually need to be replaced. Check the manufacturer's recommendations to know what level you need for safe riding.

We hope you found this guide helpful! If you have any questions or need motorcycle service, visit Biggs Harley-Davidson. We also offer a range of motorcycles for sale if you are looking to buy. Our friendly staff is happy to answer any questions you have and provide advice on which models best suit your needs. We are located in San Marcos, California near San Diego, Oceanside, and Poway. Stop by today!