How Many Kilometers Should Motorcycle Tires Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Motorcycle tires are generally replaced every 3 years or after traveling 60,000 kilometers. For owners with good driving habits, the replacement interval is typically 3-5 years or a mileage of 60,000-80,000 kilometers. If the road conditions are relatively harsh, such as frequently driving on gravel roads or experiencing frequent traffic jams, sudden braking, and sharp turns, the tire replacement period will be shortened. Tire aging time: The main material of tires is rubber, which undergoes natural aging. This primarily manifests as the tires hardening and the sidewalls becoming covered with small cracks. Generally, the natural aging period is 4-5 years. Tires should be replaced promptly after 5 years of use to prevent the risk of blowouts. Observing tire wear: If the tire wear is severe and the tread pattern has reached the same level as the wear indicators, the tires need to be replaced. Otherwise, braking on wet or slippery roads will be more difficult, and the vehicle is highly prone to losing control. Additionally, driving on excessively rough roads increases the risk of blowouts.
I've been riding motorcycles for over a decade, and tires aren't replaced based on fixed mileage. It depends on personal habits, tire quality, and road conditions. Generally, street tires should be checked around 8,000 to 15,000 kilometers. Those used for long-distance trips or frequent cornering wear out faster. I make it a habit to measure tread depth monthly using a coin. If it's worn down to the indicator mark, leaving only 1.6 millimeters, I replace them immediately—otherwise, they can easily slip in the rain and cause accidents. Price-wise, a new set of tires costs a few hundred dollars, and it's not worth skimping on. Last week, a friend lost control due to worn-out tires and ended up spending more on repairs. Regular checks can extend tire life, but safety always comes first.