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Motorcycle Tires

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For Motorcycle riders, it is crucial to have some knowledge of tires. The age, size, load capacity, and speed rate, are factors that are important to a tire. Before choosing a new tire, the rider should either consult the user manual for the motorcycle or a bike dealer. Choosing the wrong tires could mess up the performance of the motorcycle, since they don’t meet the specifications.

Tire Categories

Differences in motorcycle tires are quite visible. The basic concept in making tires is however, relatively similar, and no matter what shape and size they are, they are still usually put into one of two categories.

The two categories of tires are called Radial and Bias. The main characteristics of each of them can have an effect on the wear and braking performance of the motorcycle. The Radial tires are often used in new model motorcycles, and have a longer lifetime; while the Bias tires are known to be used in older motorcycles and known to sustain heavy weight. The two tire categories should never be combined on a motorcycle, but it is generally safe to switch from Radial to Bias and vice versa, if the dealer has been consulted and agrees with the switch.

Sportbike Tires

Sportbike tires have little or no wet groove, as they are fabricated for dry roads and race tracks. They give more grip and acceleration on a dry surface. Riding with these kind of tires can however, be hazardous on wet roads or streets.

Inspection, Maintenance and Lifetime

Tires do not only serve the purpose of providing friction, they can also give signals, and the rider should always be attentive to these signals. It could mean that the tires are underinflated, there’s a leak, or even worse, damage on the tires.

5 to 10 years is the maximum number of years a motorcycle tire is expected to last. Environment and usage can cause tires to wear out faster. Don’t forget to check the date codes before buying any tire.

Racing Motorcycles

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For motorcycle riders who want to enjoy track racing, or just enjoy the pleasure of diving into corners along scenic country roads, a racing motorcycle could be the right choice. Some good alternatives will be looked into here.

BMW

BMW is set to overtake Honda Gold Wing in touring honors, after the release of BMW K1600GT and BMW K1600GTL in 2012. BMW engines are quite legendary, with the refined boxer engines used in their motorcycles today.

1200GS is another great motorcycle made by BMW, and the best selling model made by the german company. Especially useful for customers in the northern parts of the world, is that they come with a heated seats and handgrips. They are also built with an impressive audio system and mp3 player docking.

Harley Davidson

Harley Davidson is mostly famous for making touring bikes, or choppers. But with powerful engines and great handling, they can also be used by the more active riders, who prefers a sporty motorcycle. Some of their range include:

  • Sportsters
  • Dynas
  • Softails
  • Touring
  • V-Rods
  • Trikes

Harley Davidson has a long and proud history as being one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers for many decades. There’s always a taste of vintage and epic, combined with contemporary technology. Experienced enthusiasts will often prefer Harley’s CVO Street Glide which is one of their best selling models. Another great option, with its low seat and comfortable riding position, is the Sportster 883 Low.

Ducati

Ducati is one of the most widely used brands in motorcycle races, and also one of the most desired among amateur riders. Some of the new Ducati models include:

  • Diavel Sport Cruiser
  • 1189SP Superbike
  • Multistrada 1200 Sport Touring
  • Hypermotard 1100EVO
  • Streetfighter Naked Motorcycle
  • Monster 696

Another famous model, the Ducati 848, features a wet clutch which is less noisy than the dry clutch used by other Ducati models. Ducati is famous for displaying new technologies like these on MotoGP, World Superbike and other racing events alike.

Safety on Motorcycles

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Motorcycles are not exactly the safest way to travel, but this does not mean that accidents are bound to happen. It is possible to ride without injuries, if the rider prepares for the risks and knows how to avoid them.

Controlling the Power

The performance of today’s bikes may be surprising to older bikers, and people who haven’t been riding motorcycles for a while. It is therefore, important to take it easy in the beginning, while getting familiarized with any new model.

Consider Safety when Buying

Safety starts from the point when the rider is buying a bike. It is necessary to buy a bike the fits the rider when seated, with both feet able to touch the ground flat. A smaller model with a 250 to 300 cc engine is mostly recommended for starters

Buying a brand new motorcycle may cost a little extra. But it could turn out to be a good investment, since they are equipped with a lot of safety features that would not be included on vintage bikes, such as ABS brakes. Getting a bike with an anti lock brakes could save the rider from crashing on slippery roads.

Protective Gear

One of the most important things to remember to stay safe on a motorcycle is to always wear a helmet. If a rider crashes without a helmet, then there’s every tendency the person will suffer a brain injury. A full face helmet offers most protection.

Reinforced jacket, full pants, over-the-ankle footwear, and gloves should also be worn while riding. There is even protective gear that allows ventilation in hot weather. Since sunglasses will not provide enough protection for the eyes, helmet visor or goggles are advised.

Before the Ride

A thorough check of the motorcycle should always be conducted before a ride. The rider should also limit the speed according to speed limits and abilities. Inexperienced riders should avoid riding in bad weather. And obviously any person riding a motorcycle must stay away from alcohol and other substances that can impede the judgement and coordination.