Practical Tips for Caring for Motorcycle Tires, Can Be Done at Home

 Motorcycle tires do not just move, but have an important role. This component has various functions, such as supporting the load of the vehicle, supporting stability when driving, and helping grip the asphalt when braking.

“Tires are an important component of motorcycles, maintenance is quite simple and easy to do independently, but is often overlooked by riders. Whereas routine maintenance of motorcycle tires can maintain the comfort and performance of the motorcycle itself. So, we will share some practical tire care tips for motorcycle riders in Indonesia," said Antonius Widiantoro, Public Relations Manager of PT Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing.

Judging from the task which is quite vital, the driver must pay more attention to this one component. By treating it properly, at least it can reduce the risk that can be caused. Realizing the importance of understanding in caring for tires, Yamaha shares some practical tips.

1. Checking the Outer Appearance of the Tires

If there are cracks, tears, damage due to foreign objects, or bumps, immediately change the tires to an authorized or trusted repair shop. For Yamaha motorcycle owners, you can visit the nearest authorized dealer or contact the SKY (Yamaha Visiting Service) facility through the My Yamaha App. Official Yamaha workshops have used tire changers to maintain tire durability and keep the color and condition of the wheels smooth. 

2. Checking Tire Life

In general, the age of the tires can reach 5 years, but the driver still has to pay attention to the condition of the tires, especially if the rider is active and regularly uses a motorbike, and often passes on uneven roads. In addition to ensuring that the outer appearance of the tire is free from cracks, the rider can see the age of the tire from the production code found on the side of the motorcycle tire. Consists of a 4-digit code, listed the year and week of manufacture. For example, the Yamaha Gear has the code 0422, meaning that the tire was made in week 4 or January 2022.

3. Checking Tire Groove Thickness

The tire has an indicator to show tire tread wear (TWI = Tread Wear Indicator) with a 'triangle' marker on the sidewall of the tire. If any of the wear indicators are visible on the surface, then the tire grooves can barely serve as drainage in rainy weather. In this case, be sure to replace the tires.

4. Make sure the tire pressure is up to standard

Checking tire pressure can be done in cold conditions by using a tire pressure gauge. Make sure the tire pressure matches the size and type of motorcycle listed in the owner's manual. An example is the Yamaha Gear 125 scooter, with a standard pressure size of 29 Psi front tires and 33 Psi rear tires. The ideal tire air pressure can maintain stability and comfort, especially at high speeds and turns, and reduce tire life.

5. Using Standard Tires

Always use tires that are in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid a decrease in motorcycle performance that can pose a risk of riding.

6. Make sure to carry the load according to the capacity of the tire.

Check the load capacity of motorcycle tires before riding. This can prevent overloading which poses a risk of danger when driving. Riders can see the load capacity of the motorcycle tires through the 3-digit number after the tire size data. For example on Yamaha Gear 80/80-14M/C 43P, where the last 3 digits 43P means:

43 = Maximum load 155kg

P = Maximum speed limit 150 km/h

To minimize the risk of motorcyclists while driving, Yamaha products have used tubeless tires. In addition to practical maintenance, the use of tubeless tires can support the quality of motorcycles and increase comfort while riding, especially for female riders.