Tyre FAQs
Our mates at Pirelli Tyres have been kind enough to give us some answers to the FAQ’s we get asked! So here they are with a little more info provided by Chris, our Service Manager here in store.
WHY IS TYRE PRESSURE SO IMPORTANT?
PIRELLI: To ensure your Pirelli tyres perform to the highest standards you do need to make sure the tyre pressure is appropriate to the conditions you are riding in. Tyres are an important part of your bikes overall suspension and the right pressure will ensure that you have optimum control and comfort as you are riding.
CHRIS: Keeping your tyres at the recommended pressure extends the life of your tyres and will keep the feel and control of ride of your bike just right.
HOW DO I CHECK THE PRESSURE OF MY PIRELLI TYRES?
PIRELLI: You can get affordable and portable tyre pressure devices that will allow you to quickly and easily check motorcycle tyre pressure. If you are entering a competitive event you need to check the tire pressure before you ride in each race (cold pressure reading) just to ensure you are starting off with optimum control and traction.
CHRIS: You can check your tyre pressure yourself with a tyre pressure gauge, you can check it at the servo, or easiest still, just drop in and see us. We’ll check your tyre pressures for you and top them up if needed for free!
WHAT DO THE LETTERS ON THE TYRES MEAN?
PIRELLI: All motorcycle tyres are stamped with lettering. This will tell you essential sizing details such as the nominal section width in mm, the ratio between the tire section height and the nominal section width and the nominal rim diameter size in inches. You need to know this to make sure you are fitting the right tyres to your wheels and you can check manufacturer guidelines in your instruction manual.
CHRIS: Pirelli have pretty much covered that subject!
HOW DO YOU CLEAN MOTORCYCLE TYRES?
PIRELLI: Cleaning off-road motorcycle tyres and wheels can be tricky as they can get caked in mud, sand and dirt and the wheel sections often have fiddly spoke designs. You will need to use a non-acidic cleaner on your wheels and tyres and a soft brush so that you can get into all the tight corners and crevices. It can be a good idea to spray the bike over with some water and leave it to soak in for a few moments before you start. This will help loosen dried mud and grime so that it is more easily removed. You can buy cleaners that are specially designed for use on motorcycle tyres which will clear away dirt without degrading the surface of the tyre. Don’t use a hard bristle brush on your wheels and motorcycle tyres as this can cause scratching and damage. Make sure you wash off all the cleaning fluids thoroughly and leave the bike to dry before you put it away.
CHRIS: We would recommence warm soapy water if you want to clean your tyres, make sure you rinse well and let your tyres dry prior to riding. Most of all NEVER EVER use Tyre Shine on your tyres.
