Motorcycle Explorer February 2015 Issue 4 | Page 199
Tyre Pressure and Inflation
Always keep the motorcycle manufacturer's recommended air pressure in both tyres. This is
an important requirement for tyre safety and mileage. Your motorcycle owner’s manual will
tell you the recommended cold inflation pressure. On some motorcycles, the recommended
front and rear tyre pressures will be different. The pressures stamped on the sidewall of the
tyre are only for maximum loads. On some occasions, these pressures will also be the
manufacturers recommended settings as well.
Riding on tyres with too little air pressure is dangerous. The tyres will build excessive heat
which can cause a sudden tyre failure that could lead to serious personal injury or death.
Underinflation may also:
Damage the tyre leading to tyre failure
Adversely affect vehicle cornering
Reduce tyre life
Increase fuel consumption
Fatigue cracking
Riding on tyres with too much air can also be dangerous. The tyres are more likely to be cut,
punctured, or broken by sudden impact. Serious personal injury or death could result. Do not
exceed the pressure indicated on the tyre sidewall. Consult your owner’s manual for the
recommended inflation pressure.
Never inflate a tyre unless it is secured to the motorcycle or
a tyre-mounting machine. Inflating an unsecured tyre is
dangerous. If it bursts, it could be hurled into the air with
explosive force resulting in serious personal injury or death.