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How to maintain tires


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

(1) They directly contact the road surface and bear the weight of the vehicle.

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

(3) They ensure reliable traction to prevent slippage while riding.

The key to tire maintenance and care is maintaining proper tire inflation pressure.

Appropriate tire pressure maximizes traction, stability, riding comfort, and tire lifespan. Insufficient tire pressure increases rolling resistance, engine load, and fuel consumption; it can even cause the tire to detach from the rim. Excessive tire pressure reduces stability and creates a "bouncing" sensation during riding.

 

 

Maintain tire integrity and 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 inner tube punctures. Motorcycle outer tires are generally not repairable because heat-patched treads are higher than other parts, causing the vehicle to bounce up and down during riding. Inner tube repair is best done using a vulcanizing method; if vulcanizing materials and tools are unavailable, cold patching with repair tape can be used.

If frequently traveling on unclean road sections with scattered iron filings and broken glass, to prevent irreparable inner tube punctures, carry a dedicated tool kit: two tire levers, a small air pump, a small folding scissors, a tube of tire repair cement, and several patches. Inner tube replacement depends on its aging and condition. Even after repair, a punctured inner tube is significantly less reliable than a new one. Inner tubes that are one year old or have traveled over 8,000 kilometers should be considered for replacement. When installing a new inner tube, lightly apply a thin layer of talcum powder to its outer surface before inserting it into the outer tire to prevent aging and adhesion. When installing or removing outer tires, use dedicated tire levers; avoid sharp-edged tools to prevent tire damage.

Avoid sun exposure and oil contamination:

Prolonged sun exposure causes tire cracking and aging. Park the motorcycle in a dust-proof, sun-proof, rain-proof, and ventilated area, or cover it with a tarp. This protects not only the tires but also the vehicle's paint, plating, and plastic parts. Oil, acids, and alkalis corrode rubber; therefore, avoid contact between tires and these substances. For long-term storage, use a wooden stand to lift the entire vehicle to prevent tire deformation from prolonged weight on a single section.

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