How much tread left when you replace tires?

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Sep 4, 2006 | 10:08 AM

Protrucker

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Tourer

Joined: Apr 2006

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From: Binghamton, NY

How much tread left when you replace tires?

I've been watching my tread wear & am starting to think about replacing the rear. I asked the local dealer yesterday and they told me that at 3/32" I should replace it. The owner manual says 1/32" with the wear bar showing. I'm at 3/32" right now with only 4245 miles. Would you run it for a while yet? I'm starting to think that I'll replace it at the 5000 mile service.

Sep 4, 2006 | 10:23 AM

cutacroshorty

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Joined: May 2006

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From: Oklahoma

RE: How much tread left when you replace tires?

Most everyone has their own criteria as to when they change the tires.

Excessively worn tires will increase handling problems on reduced traction surfaces. Generally, you should replace tires when the wear bar becomes visible or sooner. Minimum tread depth of 2/32 inch.

I've seen rear tire that have been ridden until the cord is visable.

Sep 4, 2006 | 05:02 PM

Bryan TTM

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RE: How much tread left when you replace tires?

when theyre BALD

Sep 4, 2006 | 05:13 PM

Hackd

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From: Canton, Michigan

RE: How much tread left when you replace tires?

With me it's normall a mileage thing, at 16K I start taking a serious look at the rear, or a time thing. I replace both tires last fall not because they were worn out, but rather becuase they had been on the bike for three years, and it looked like the front was starting to crack in spots.

Sep 4, 2006 | 08:58 PM

KeithB

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From: South of Utica New York

RE: How much tread left when you replace tires?

i run my rear until the center tread just barely shows. But if you do and it starts to rain slow way down [8D]

Sep 4, 2006 | 09:23 PM

Georgia Kracker

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RE: How much tread left when you replace tires?

2/32nds, is what is recommended by tire professionals. It's your bike and if you don't feel comfortable with 3/32nds change it now. I have learned you don't mess with tires. I was behind my buddy on the interstate when he and his wife went down because of a blown tire at 70 mph. After you see that you always will make sure you have good rubber on the road

Sep 4, 2006 | 10:29 PM

txfxstrider

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RE: How much tread left when you replace tires?

Quote:

ORIGINAL: Hackd

With me it's normall a mileage thing, at 16K I start taking a serious look at the rear, or a time thing. I replace both tires last fall not because they were worn out, but rather becuase they had been on the bike for three years, and it looked like the front was starting to crack in spots.

You make a good point. For people who do not put on a lot of miles, age of the tire becomes an issue. any cracks on the sidewalls and the tires should be replaced. I think five years is generally the age limit. Of course tread wear should always be watched. Riding style and model of bike affect this. 2/32 min. My bike tires generally are replaced about every ten thousand miles. Better safe than sorry and peace of mind when on a long trip is worth a lot to me.