When was the last time you checked your tyre pressure? After all, it's the air contained within that carries the load, not the tyre itself. Safe to say, ensuring the correct psi is vital as it makes your riding experience safer, increases the longevity of your tyre’s and improves bike performance.
So what exactly is the most ideal tyre pressure for your motorbike? Well...it depends. Each motorcycle will have its own recommended psi pressure set by manufacturers. Often the pressure will depend on a few factors. For example, single or pillion usage, anticipated load conditions, and weather conditions. This kind of information will be specific to your model of bike and can be found in the user manual handbook or on the bike's swingarm.
For off road, endurance bikes, this will change. It’s recommended to again reference your user manual as a guide, however depending on your personal riding style and terrain, you may decide to experiment with alternative psi’s. For example, sandy, loose terrain will require a lower psi than firm dirt tracks. In general, off road bikes will be sporting a decreased psi pressure when compared to road oriented tyres, so don’t feel alarmed by the lessened amount of air.
Typically, street motorcycle tyres are within the psi range of 28 to 44. For my 2015 Street 500, the user manual suggests the front tyre should be sitting at 34psi and the rear at 42psi. Under-pressurised tyres can run hot, which can affect the compound and accelerate tyre wear. Lower than recommended pressures can dramatically affect the performance and handling of the bike, which can be dangerous in certain conditions. The idea of over-inflating is also not recommended as it results in a hard ride and accelerates tyre wear in the centre on the contact patch. I tend to routinely check the tyre pressures every fortnight, adjusting when need be.
An effective and cheap method to ensure your tyre pressure is always ideal is by using a tyre pressure gauge. Accuracy is key, and Harley’s® Compact Tire Gauge and Tread Depth Indicator is one of the most precise gauges I’ve used. Simple, handy and affordable, the gauge features a braided stainless steel lead and a dual range indicator for 0-60 psi and 0-400 kPa readings. At a fair $69.00 AUD, the Compact Tire Gauge and Tread Depth Indicator is a must in every rider’s tool kit. Visit us in-store today at Central Coast Harley Davidson®, 210 MANNS RD, WEST GOSFORD, NSW 2250. Call (02) 4322 3331 today!
