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Tire maintenance


 

For a motorcycle, good tires are as crucial as good shoes during riding.

The roles of tires during riding include:

(1) Direct contact with the road surface, bearing the weight of the vehicle;

(2) Utilizing their inflation-induced elasticity to cushion and partially absorb vibrations and impacts caused by uneven roads during riding;

(3) Ensuring reliable traction to prevent slippage during vehicle operation.

Key points for tire maintenance and care are: Maintaining proper tire inflation pressure;

Appropriate tire inflation pressure allows the motorcycle to achieve maximum traction, stability, riding comfort, and a longer service life. Insufficient tire pressure not only increases rolling resistance, engine load, and fuel consumption, but can also cause the tire to detach from the rim. Excessive tire pressure, however, reduces motorcycle stability, resulting in a "bouncing" sensation during riding.

Maintaining tire integrity and tread cleanliness:

After each ride, inspect the front and rear tire treads, removing small stones and other debris embedded in the tread pattern. If small nails or metal fragments are found, remove them immediately and carefully check for punctures in the inner tube. Motorcycle outer tires are generally not suitable for repair, as the heat-patched tread is higher than other parts, causing the vehicle to bounce up and down during riding. Inner tube repair is best done using a vulcanizing method; in the absence of vulcanizing materials and tools, cold patching with patch glue can also be used.

If frequently passing through unclean road sections with scattered iron filings and broken glass, to prevent irreparable inner tube punctures, carry a dedicated tool kit, including: two tire levers, a small air pump, a small folding scissors, a tube of patch glue, and several patches. Inner tube replacement mainly depends on its aging and integrity. Although a punctured inner tube has been repaired, its reliability is significantly reduced compared to an undamaged inner tube. Inner tubes that have been used for a year or have traveled over 8,000 kilometers should be considered for replacement. When replacing a new inner tube, it is best to apply a thin layer of talcum powder to its outer surface before installing it into the outer tire, preventing aging and adhesion to the outer tire. When installing and removing outer tires, it is best to use dedicated tire levers; do not use sharp-edged tools to prevent tire damage during operation.

Avoid sun exposure and oil contamination:

Frequent sun exposure can cause tires to crack and age; therefore, it is best to park the motorcycle in a dust-proof, sun-proof, rain-proof, and ventilated area, or cover the vehicle with a tarp. This is not only beneficial for the tires but also protects the vehicle's paint, plating, and plastic parts. Oil, acids, and alkalis corrode rubber; therefore, avoid contact between tires and these substances. For vehicles not in use for extended periods, it is best to use a wooden stand to lift the entire vehicle to prevent long-term weight bearing on a small section of the tire, causing deformation.