Return Your Bike to the Road Safely, Urges TyreSafe

Spring is, believe it or not, just around the corner, and many seasonal riders will soon be pulling the wraps off their beloved machines. And while the urge to get back out on the road may be strong, TyreSafe reminds owners that months of inactivity can pose added dangers for motorcyclists.

Tyres may become under-inflated and, particularly if the bike has not been adequately sheltered from the elements, will be subject to “dry rotting” or “cracking.” As tyre damage is, TyreSafe points out, one of the most common causes of breakdown, the safety organisation has released the following tips to keep riders on the road this Spring:

Tyre pressure should match that recommended by the manufacturer, and these should be checked from cold at least once a week;
Inspect tyres for cuts, bulges, uneven wear or objects embedded into the tread pattern;
Tread depth should be a minimum of 1mm (for bikes over 50cc);
Old or damaged valve stems should be replaced;
Tyres should be of the same manufacturer or pattern; and
Cracked or bent rims should be replaced immediately.

Bike Tyre Safety Month will take place throughout the month of March, a TyreSafe initiative designed to highlight the dangers of defective or badly worn tyres on motorcycles and scooters. The four-week long campaign, the first of its kind, has received full backing from both tyre manufacturers and retailers, and further details of how to support the scheme may be found on the TyreSafe website at www.tyresafe.org.