Screwed!
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 54
Likes: 1
This is also what I would do, I would not want a plugged tire for a 400 mile trip. But getting around town I wouldn't give it a second thought. This also allows you time to save for the new tire.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 14,778
Likes: 69
From: Badlands of ND
A couple of years ago I noticed a shiny screw in my rear tire. It had been in there awhile and I had ground off the screw head entirely. The tire had not lost 1 pound of air. I had it plugged at the shop locally and put another 2000 miles on it. Never a issue. Had a similar thing happen in my wifes car last winter. I think we put about 10,000 more miles on those tires before we changed them recently.
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Cruiser
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 191
Likes: 0
From: Vancouver BC
Thanks for the replies! I had it plugged ($10) and the shop believes it is good as new. I will let you know if I have a problem with it.
interesting that the Harley Shop refused to plug the tire for "liability reasons".
interesting that the Harley Shop refused to plug the tire for "liability reasons".
Club Member
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 66,126
Likes: 51,446
From: Niles Canyon Ca.
You will likely hear strong opinions from both sides, but I would replace it, and I have replaced at least one almost-new tire with a nail in it.
Depends on your finances of course. If a new tire is two weeks' pay for you, don't plug it, have it removed and a patch put on the inside, it'll probably be fine.
Depends on your finances of course. If a new tire is two weeks' pay for you, don't plug it, have it removed and a patch put on the inside, it'll probably be fine.
About the best middle of the road reply we're gonna see and the most sensible too . I've done all 3 depending on the money situation , age of the tire and were the offending object got it . Nearly new & a center thread puncture it will get the inside patch treatment 1st , the plug 2nd , on the outer edge or sidewall it's new tire time .
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 2,145
Likes: 2
From: Ontario East
Plug & inside patch will last for ever if done properly. It becomes 'one with the tire'. The old 'hot patch' was great. With an inside patch, your 'hole/cut' still flexes open & closed, allowing debris, small stones to enter the tire and the patch is very thin compared to the overall thickness of the tire. That is why I also plug it.
Enjoy your ride.
Enjoy your ride.
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 409
Likes: 0
From: Tucson,Arizona
Get a new tire...you will always be thinking about the leak...it is not worth it....get a new tire and ride with enjoyment......
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Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 52
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From: Forest, Ontario, Canada
repairing the tire from the inside is the proper answer. When done properly with a combination plug/patch (all 1 piece) it seals the tire construction and keeps moisture and dirt from entering the carcase and causing separation issues. I repair tires like this all the time and have never had a problem.
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Joined: Sep 2009
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From: River City Western Canada