I have a 2017 RKS with 5200 miles. Discovered the tire loosing pressure and found a small puncture. Can I plug this and move on? Or do I have to replace the tire? Local dealer wants $340 to replace.
thanks

 

Plugs in motorcycle tires have always been for emergency road side repair only. Just enough to get you to some real help and a new tire.

 

You don't have to ...If it was me I would plug it and ride as long as it was local, I would also put some rideon sealant balancer gel with the plug and I would be looking for a better price on a tire... Don't you have a Indipendent shop around or a Cycle Gear... Can you take your own wheel off... Look around... For that money you can buy a Motorcycle lift jack and a tire...My Indy charges me like $25 to remove/ re install a tire if I take him the wheel and tire...

 

 

It's in the tread. Not planning any long trips, but I ride 30 miles each way to work.

 

Personally, I'd get a new tire and also put Rideon in it. You might also shop around and see if you can get a better deal on a tire. I have an Indy that works on my bike and with his cost of the tire and mounting, I can get it all done for less than the cost that your dealer quoted you.

 

Personally if it were mine id pull the tire and patch it from inside. On a side note i had a good friend of mine who commutes on motorcycles(has a few) run a tire with close to 20 plugs in it... not saying its a good idea but hes fine.

 

Front or Rear??
I've ridden on plugged rears (in the tread) but wouldn't do it except in an emergency on the front.

 

The long answer is NO
If the load carrying part of the tire has the hole in it .
Put the plug in and forget about it

 

Carry a plug kit when travelling. Emergency repair only, like duct tape.

OP, I guess it all depends on how you value your life and how you ride. A tire is a HELL of a lot cheaper and less painful than hospital bills and road rash.