Motorcycle Tire Safety

Posted: June 29, 2011 in Insurance, Motorcycle Insurance, Safety

If you want to ride a motorcycle, then you need to know about tire safety. The only thing between you and total disaster on a motorcycle is the tires so make yourself an expert on them real quick.

For optimum performance and fuel economy, make sure your tires are not over inflated or under inflated. Keep a tire pressure gauge with you every time you go for a ride on your motorcycle. Adequate tire tread not only ensures tire integrity, it allows water to be channeled away from the contact patch, which helps maintain grip under wet conditions.  Using a quarter, ensure that when placed within the tread groove, the top of the tire does not extend below the top of Washington’s head.  If tread depth is 1-2mm it is time to replace your tires.  Wear on one side of the tread or flat spots in the tread may indicate a problem with the tire or vehicle.

Don’t overload your bike! It can place stress on the tires and cause poor handling and gas mileage, and get your wheels properly mounted and aligned. Improper mounting can cause accidents.

New tires should not be run at high speeds, or pushed into leans or hard cornering until after 100 miles. The most common motorcycle breakdown is for tire damage. Inspect your tires for excessive or uneven wear. Bald tires can cause skidding or blow outs. Motorcycle tires are often designed with reinforcements aimed at minimizing centrifugal growth. Check your motorcycle wheels and tires any time you experience an unusually bumpy ride (potholes, rocks, etc. It’s easier to check motorcycle wheels if you raise your bike using a lift or a center stand.

If you put in a claim against your NY motorcycle insurance policy because you wrecked your bike and it was due to negligent care and unusual wear and tear from it, your insurance claim may be denied as well.

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