New York Chapter "W"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association

Rochester, NY

Rider Education Information by Gary Mandak

Riding Educator, New York Chapter "W"

A Bias Tire Tread To Keep You Pumped

When we ride our motorcycle, there are two things we tend to take for granted, but they are the only two things that keep us rolling. Our tires.

Sidewall Information

The sidewall tells a history of the tires, for example a 120/80/17 tire means the 120 is the tire width in millimeters. The 80 states that the tire is 80% tall as it is wide and the 17 means it goes on a 17" rim. It also includes the date of manufacture. The sidewall may also include the recommended air pressure, but you should also consult your owner's manual for specific information. Consult your manual when purchasing a new tire to make sure you have the correct size and type (bias or radial).

Tread

The tire tread needs to be checked on a regular basis for wear, cuts or imbedded objects. If you are starting to show tread wear, replace them or risk being stranded on the road and paying a much higher price for both the tire and you. Also check your valve stems and replace them when changing your tires.

Proper Inflation

Over and under inflation are important things to look for while checking your tires. Over inflation means too much air pressure in the tire, which makes the tire stiffer and causes a harder ride. This will also give you less contact area on the road surface. Under inflation means too little air pressure in the tire, which makes a tire softer which causes a larger contact surface, higher tire temperature and higher wear. It may also cause handling problems. Excessive under inflation may also cause a blow out. Check you tires when they are cool, other wise your readings may be inflated.

Repairing Flats

Flat tires are also a real concern on the road. A handy item to carry is a tire patch or plug kit. They should be used for emergencies, only to get you to the nearest dealer to install a new tire. You will want to practice using the repair kit on a tire BEFORE you have a flat. Find an old tire and practice on that. You will also need a compressor or CO2 cartridges to inflate your tire if you don't have an onboard compressor. The compressors can be purchased at your local discount store for about $10. To conserve space, you can remove the outer case to make them even more compact.

Check your tires on a regular basis for correct pressure, excessive wear, sidewall cracks or foreign objects imbedded in your tires. Don't be too tired to check them 'wheely' often. Tires, the only things between you and the road.

Practice Safe Riding

Gary Mandak

Chapter "W" Educator