How old do tires last ?

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May 17, 2015 | 03:09 PM

Delawaredave

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How old do tires last ?

89 FLH. Bought used in 2008. I've had for 7 years and maybe put on 1,000 miles per year.

The front tire looks great, HD Dunlop D402F.

But I am trying to understand:

1. How old is this tire
2. How many years do tires safely last, and
3. There's some real small micro cracks in the grooves, does this matter ?

Here's a picture of the "molded in numbers": Tire numbers

I think top picture is relevant, and I'm guessing tire was manufactured 33rd week of 2001.

Looking at tread, if you really zoom into picture, you can see some small cracks in grooves, see pics below. Looking at tire with naked eye, it looks great.

How long do motorcycle tires last ? Appreciate any thoughts. Thanks!

Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3

May 17, 2015 | 03:41 PM

prostar

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From: N. Texas

3301 tire was made 33rd week of 01 I would replace

May 17, 2015 | 03:52 PM

TSheff

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From: SE Texas

If in doubt, get new rubber. Better than healing up saying - DAMN I knew i should have bought new tires.

May 17, 2015 | 04:03 PM

TriGeezer

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From: Carlsbad, CA

Been many threads on this. Tires age over time regardless of miles. They harden and deteriorate. Most manufacturers recommend replacement after no more than 6 years.

May 18, 2015 | 07:36 PM

J2X

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From: Slidell, Louisiana

Quote:

Originally Posted by TriGeezer

Been many threads on this. Tires age over time regardless of miles. They harden and deteriorate. Most manufacturers recommend replacement after no more than 6 years.

Just replaced mine. 7 years old 12000 mi. Back tire was worn. Front tire was fine. Mechanic recommmended changing the front, given the length of time it had been on the road. Big difference with new rubber.

The bike is 2007 RKC.

Last edited by J2X; May 18, 2015 at 07:38 PM.

May 18, 2015 | 07:43 PM

Ashnic

Road Warrior

Joined: Apr 2015

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From: Ohio

This answers my question as well. 06 Heritage 5k on bike/tires manufacture date of 4805..time to replace now..

May 19, 2015 | 07:51 AM

grbrown

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Joined: Jun 2007

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From: Bedford UK

Dave,

2. Already answered, around 6 years, so I agree that you should replace yours.
3. Cracks do indeed matter! They are evidence that the rubber has deteriorated and they are beyond their replacement date!

I'm sure we all look forward to reading your post letting us know you are riding on lovely new tyres!