6 Simple Ways on How to Extend the Life of Your Dirt Bike Tyres

There are several ways to limit the amount of damage done to your tyres, helping you avoid breaking the bank. Here are some life hacks we learned along the way on how you can prolong the life of your dirt bike tyres:

1. Choose the appropriate tyres

Start by choosing the appropriate tyres for your dirt bike. This means that you have to choose tyres that are best suited to the terrain. Different tyres have different compounds (hard, soft, intermediate), so it’s best if you do your research first to find out what tyres will suit the type of riding you are doing.

2. Check your tyre pressure before every ride

With the correct tyre pressure, not only will it increase the lifespan of your tyre, but the bike will handle better. Running a pressure that is too high will get less traction and apply extra stress to the lugs which can tear off. If your tyre pressure is too low you run the risk of damaging the sidewall of your tyre, pinching your tube and putting flat spots on your rims.

Pro-tip: Tyre pressures can lower slightly in colder temperatures and increase in warm weather or places. Also check your pressure before riding as the tyre will heat up after riding and give a higher pressure false reading.

Checking your tyre pressure is also important for your safety, and it helps improve fuel efficiency.

Looking for a tyre gauge? Check out the motopressor mini pump with tyre gauge.

3. Suspension: maintenance and adjustment

You should also pay attention to your suspension, which plays a huge role in the performance of your tyres. Your forks and rear shock will typically come with different adjustments. Keep in mind your weight, speed, and type of surface when adjusting the preload and the spring settings. Check your manual or get some help with suspension setup if you are not familiar with it.

4. Throttle control

The more controlled you are on the throttle while you ride, the longer your tyres will last. Billy the Bandit & Loose Wheel Lenny will always wear through tyres quicker than a smooth operator. Definitely no burnouts if you want to look after your rear tyre and back pocket.

5. Say goodbye to harsh cleaning products

All you need to clean your tyres is water, a sponge or brush and a decent bike wash. Watch out for harsh chemicals in some heavy duty cleaners and degreasers that can damage your tyres and stain your bike.

6. Storage makes a difference

Where you store your dirt bike/tyres when not in use will make a difference. Extreme temperature changes, exposure to the sun, or other weather elements is bad for the tyre compounds and other motorcycle components.

When you’re not using your dirt bike, store it in a cool, dry place away from the extreme weather changes. If your bike is near a window, throw a bike cover over it. If you know you’re not going to be riding your dirt bike for a long time, it’s better to park it on a stand so that the wheels don’t touch the ground. Otherwise, the rubber will eventually deform.

Do you think it might be time to replace your tyres? We made a quick list of the signs you should watch out for here.