Motorcycle Tire Maintenance

Operating your Motorcycle with incorrect tires, incorrect tire pressure or excessively worn tires could cause loss of control or accident. Always use the correct size and type of tires specified in the Owner’s Manual for your bike.

Tire Pressure

Always maintain proper tire pressure as recommended in the Owner’s Manual and on safety labels. Improper tire pressure can result in irregular tire wear, tire failure, reduced fuel economy and a poor riding experience. It also can affect handling and stopping ability. Slow tire pressure loss over time is normal for a functional tire.

Even though a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), if equipped, will alert the rider of a low-pressure condition, always inspect tire pressure and condition before each ride.

Check the tire pressure before riding when the tires are cold. This will provide the most accurate reading. Riding warms the tires and increases tire air pressure and tires remain warm for at least three hours after a ride.

Do not adjust the tire pressure immediately after riding. As tires cool, the pressure will drop and result in under-inflation. This can cause a tire to overheat and result in a tire failure. Always check and adjust tire pressure when the tires are cold.

Using an air pressure gauge, adjust tire pressure to the recommended pressure.

Tread Depth

Measure the tread depth near the center of the thread on both tires. Replace any tire with a tread depth of less than 1/16 in. (1.6mm). You may also use a depth gauge or an accurate ruler to measure the depth of the center tire tread on both front and rear tires.

Tire Condition

Inspect the sidewalls, road contact surfaces and tread base. If inspection reveals cuts, punctures, cracks or other wear or damage, replace the tire before riding.

Tire Replacement

Tires, rims, innertubes and air valves must be correctly matched to wheel rims. Use only the proper size tires specified with the same or higher load ratings.

Mismatched tires, rims and air valves may result in damage to the tire bead during mounting or may allow the tire to slip off the rim, possibly resulting in a tire failure.

On models equipped with innertubes, innertubes MUST be replaced with new innertubes when tires are replaced. Use only the proper size innertubes.

Note: The provided information is a general guideline. For model-specific break-in procedures, consult your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual. Indian Motorcycle owners can log in to their RideReady account to access Owner’s Manuals.

For motorcycle repair and maintenance, find a RideReady dealer near you. Access our home page to learn more about the RideReady program, services, and benefits.