I know road bicyclists do it, but does it work for motorcycles too? Do you run less tire pressure when the streets are wet to increase traction?

 

I don't. I like to maintain good air pressure in the tires for tread life.

 

Traction is also a function of carcass shape maintained by proper air pressure. This shape is critical to the tire performing properly. In an emergency, whether on wet or dry pavement, an underinflated tire can add squirming which will unsettle the chassis and also badly effect how the tread channels water away from the tire. The best option is to slow down a bit.

 

Well Sniper I am in the minority again....recommended 36psi, I run 32psi. But 99% of my riding is solo since wife got her own.

To me it just rides better (smoother) handles fine and leaves a little wider footprint. As for longevity, my front has 27k miles and 14k out of my last rear.

 

Ain't got time to air the tires down! Too busy lookin' for a bar to hang out at or tryin' to outrun the storm.

 

Hi SniperCJ,

As a Highway Patrolman, I'd strictly advise against airing down your road bike tires. The reduced pressure changes the contact patch and profile of your tire in a way not intended by the manufacturer. I also ride road bicycles and here it's a bit different. Most (not all) road bicycle tires are slicks. There are no grooves for clearing water, hence the reduction doesn't affect this ability. As for me, I leave both sets of tires where they are rated. Just my thoughts.

 

Leave 'em aired at the recommended pressures. Just slow down a mite, and drive SMOOTHLY

 

I ride road bikes too and in my haste to post, I flat forgot that bike tires are slick and it wouldnt make much different with regard to 'tread' (or lack thereof). Color me an idiot! I'll keep the motor tires where they need to be.

 

+1 keep the pressure as recommended and ride according to the road conditions

 

........NOPE ! Don't change the air Pressure