Tire Age?
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Novice
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
From: Saskatchewan Canada
Tire Age?
I was looking for another bike the other day and came across a nice 2008 WG with 7000 miles on it. Was told it has the original tires on it and by looking at them they look in good shape. a buddy of mine said the tires should be changed because they are too old? Never heard this before on something thats only 5 years old. Anyone else agree with his statement? thanks
Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,260
Likes: 5
From: Batesville Ga
One of those debatable subjects. Most m/c tire warranties are only good for 5-6 years. That implies that the makers don't think they'll last much past that. Some folks say 10 years, others go by signs of cracking, etc on the sidewall. How and where the bike was stored has an affect as does how often it was ridden (flat spots happen on bikes just like cars left sitting too long).
A blowout at speed can be a very butt-clenching experience. Personally I'd change them out but that's me.
A blowout at speed can be a very butt-clenching experience. Personally I'd change them out but that's me.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 7,138
Likes: 26
From: Southern Oregon
a tire exposed to the elements 24/7 and baking out in the sun for 5 seasons is different than something that's been stored inside. as a rule of thumb lots of people say 5 years. examine the tire closely, if there is no cracking dont worry about it.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
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From: In front of the computer for now.
Since 2000, the week and year the tire was produced has been provided by the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number with the 2 digits being used to identify the week immediately preceding the 2 digits used to identify the year. The picture shown below show a tire manufactured in the 51st week of 2007. Most tires, if not subjected to a harsh environment, are usually good for 4 - 5 years.
Last edited by monkeyboy22; Apr 28, 2012 at 08:05 AM.
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 503
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From: New Mexico
Since 2000, the week and year the tire was produced has been provided by the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number with the 2 digits being used to identify the week immediately preceding the 2 digits used to identify the year. The picture shown below show a tire manufactured in the 51st week of 2007. Most tires, if not subjected to a harsh environment, are usually good for 4 - 5 years.
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Road Master
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,164
Likes: 401
From: Port Coquitlam B.C.
Since 2000, the week and year the tire was produced has been provided by the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number with the 2 digits being used to identify the week immediately preceding the 2 digits used to identify the year. The picture shown below show a tire manufactured in the 51st week of 2007. Most tires, if not subjected to a harsh environment, are usually good for 4 - 5 years.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,719
Likes: 91
From: Florida
The original tires on my '90 Sporty (2k miles) weren't dry rotted or cracked at all. I swapped the front out anyway and was going to do the rear but sold it first. While I definitely wouldn't want ancient tires on my scoot, five years of something stored inside is nothing, IMO.