Many youngsters today are enthusiastic bikers and enjoy going on off-road expeditions on their bikes. Going on such expeditions requires extensive preparation, and maintaining the bike’s tyres is one important aspect of this preparation. The article below presents a comprehensive guide on how to maintain and prepare the bike’s tyres before such expeditions.
The uneven terrains, those surprise water crossings and the verdant surroundings, make off-roading a much sought after adventure in India. Many bikers nowadays consciously prepare for months so they can explore various uncharted territories in India.
One thing that every biker has to be very careful about while preparing for these expeditions is the bike tyres. For a smooth and successful expedition, buying quality bike tyres and maintaining the same becomes extremely important. Here's a comprehensive guide for Indian bikers to help them maintain their tyres in perfect condition for such off-roading adventures:
Pre-Ride Health Check of the Tyres
Visual Inspection: Before starting the journey it is important to inspect all aspects of the tyre carefully. During this inspection, the biker must try to ensure that there are no cuts, punctures, or signs of wear and tear on the tread. Even things like small stones wedged in the grooves can be a cause of concern in such expeditions and should thus be taken care of.
Inspection of Tread Depth: Vehicles that are meant for off-road expeditions need to have deeper treads for better grip. Bikers must check the owner's manual to get the recommendations for minimum tread depth. It is important to replace the tyres if they do not meet the recommended standards. Deeper treads ensure better grip and safety on uneven trails.
Air Pressure Adjustment: While managing the air pressure of the tyres, people should take into account various aspects like the kinds of terrain to be traversed and the total weight of the bike along with the rider. The rider’s riding style can also greatly influence the pressure requirement. While tyres that tread on smooth surfaces need higher air pressure, those that are meant for off-road expeditions need a different approach altogether. For off-roading bikes, the air pressure in the tyres has to be 20-30% less than what is recommended for tyres that are meant for travel on smooth roads. This is primarily because lower air pressure means increased contact surface with the ground, which enhances the tyre’s grip and provides better traction on uneven surfaces. Riders can always check online tyre for bike to learn more about the specifications of tyres.
While checking the tyres is an integral aspect of the ride, riders also need to be well-prepared to handle any tyre related issues that may crop up during the ride. Riders should as such carry a puncture repair kit with them at all times. Riders must also learn to use the various parts of the kit like the tyre plugs, valve removal tool and CO2 inflator well in advance so they do not face any trouble while using the kit.
Post-Ride Checks
Every biker must remember to do a complete health check of the tyres after an off-roading adventure. The tyres should be thoroughly cleaned and all dirt and debris lodged in the treads must be carefully removed.
After cleaning the tyres, a careful visual inspection looking for cuts, punctures, or signs of damage and a quick remedial action can save the tyres from any long term or irreparable damage.
Therefore, by following these simple yet crucial tyre maintenance tips, Indian bikers can enjoy their off-road adventures in the most hassle free and safe manner.
No comments yet