Motorcycle Tires

Without your tires, you are going nowhere fast. Tires are an essential part of your motorcycle. The better you take care of them, the longer they will last and the less money you will spend on tire replacements.

Motorcycle tires come in all shapes and sizes. Some are built for tearing up those off-road trails. Others are designed to give you the smoothest ride of your life. For an overview of motorcycle tires, read on! Then bring your bike to Cross Country Powersports in Metuchen, New Jersey for all your parts and service needs.

Parts of a Tire

A tire is made of a few key components. The tread grips the road, giving the bike traction as it rides. The sidewall is the side of the tire relating to the tire’s height and aspect ratio. It gives support and handling. The bead is the edge of the tire that grips the rim. The valve stem controls the tire’s inflation. The carcass is the tire’s body and encompasses the rest of the tire.

Tire Types and Sizes

Step into a store and you’ll be met with row upon row of tires. They range in their size, their construction, their features, what bike models they fit, and so on. There are many different tire options based on what you need.

Dual sport tires offer better grip so you can enjoy off-road adventures on sand or gravel. Commuter tires give better gas mileage for trips on smooth highways. Superbike tires offer super grip and acceleration. These are just a few of the specialty tires available to motorcyclists.

When picking the right tire for you, start with the manufacturer’s recommendations. These are specially designed to be compatible with your bike. If you want to branch out from there, consider the type of riding you want to do. High speed short distance trips require different tires than cross-country trips. It’s helpful to talk to a tire expert. They can guide you to the ideal tires for your motorcycle. Remember you can always visit Cross Country Powersports for insight and advice.

Caring for Your Tires

Proper tire maintenance helps extend the life of your tires. A little bit of work can save you a lot of money down the road. Washing your tires regularly is a good first step. Otherwise, the caked on dirt and debris can lead to long-term damage. Always wash your tires after a long ride as well.

The next key thing is to maintain the proper tire inflation. This helps optimize the distribution of forces on the tread (like vehicle load and braking). You gain better fuel economy, a more comfortable ride, and less wear to the tread. Check your owner’s manual to determine the right amount of tire pressure. Then use a tire gauge to measure your tires. For the most accurate result, do this in the morning when the tire is cold.

Finally, take time to regularly examine your tread. As you ride your bike, the tread gets worn down. Eventually, it gets worn down enough that it becomes a safety issue. Your bike won’t be able to properly grip the road, which can be hazardous when accelerating, turning, and stopping. If the tread on one tire is more worn down than the other, it could suggest improper wheel inflation or poor wheel alignment.

Taking care of your tires is just one of the many aspects of motorcycle maintenance. Bring your motorcycle over to Cross Country Powersports. We serve those in Metuchen, Newark, Trenton, New Brunswick, and Paterson, New Jersey. Whether it’s helping you pick out the right tires or upgrading your bike, we are ready to help!