Motorcycle tire plug kits


Motorcycle Tire Repair | Tire Tools To Fix That Flat

Holiday Deal

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Axle Adjustment Tool Metric

$16.99

$21.99

Sale 23% Off!

46

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro RimShield II

$17.99

68

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Valve Core Tool

40

Holiday Deal

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Aluminum Off Road Tire Combo Lever Set

$39. 99

$59.99

Sale 33% Off!

20

Stockton Tire Air Pressure Gauge With Hose

$22.99 $24.99

$24.99

139

BikeMaster Tire And Tube Flat Repair Kit

$42.26

$46.95

10% savings

34

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Rim Protectors

$12.95

57

Stockton Tire Air Pressure Gauge 5-50 Pounds Pen Stylus

12

Stop & Go T-Handle Tubeless Tire Repair Kit

$21.95

22

Out of Stock

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stop & Go Tubeless Tire Plugger With CO2

$55.95

56

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T6 Tire Levers

$35.95

34

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Wheel Balancer And Truing Stand

$143.96

$159.95

10% savings

26

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Long Steel Tire Irons

$13.95

37

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Antigravity Batteries Tire Inflator

$24.99

27

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Hex Axle Tool

$25.99

31

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Wheel Axis Truing / Balancing Stand

$136.99

24

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Bead Buddy II

$16.99

10

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster 2-in-1 Tire Gauge

$39.57

$43.95

10% savings

28

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Double Tough Mini Tire Inflator

$19.99

$24.99

Sale 20% Off!

25

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Fill Air Chuck

$44.99

16

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Spoon Type Tire Iron

$23.99 $44.99

19

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

CruzTools Tirepro Dial Gauge

$19.95

37

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Assorted Tire Irons

$30.99

20

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Extra Long Steel Tire Iron

$21.95

24

Out of Stock

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stop & Go Tubeless Puncture Pilot

$65.95

57

Out of Stock

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Tire Change Stand With Bead Breaker

$87.44

$97.15

10% savings

10

Holiday Deal

Stockton Digital Tire Air Pressure Gauge

$16.99

$19.99

Sale 15% Off!

9

Motion Pro Professional Tire Pressure Gauge

$110.95

9

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T-6 Trail Bead Buddy

1

Motion Pro Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

$109.99

9

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

No-Mar Tire Mounting Lube Paste

$19. 95

7

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Enduro Tire Irons

$25.95

11

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Tire Iron 3-Piece Set

$29.99

12

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Tire Valve Tool

4

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

CruzTools Digital Tire Gauge Tool

$19.95

11

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Oxford CO2 Top-Ups

$13.99 $83.98

3

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T-6 Hex Axle Tool

$28.95

5

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T6 Combo Lever Set

$63.95 $64.99

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motorsport Products Tire Changing Stand / Bead Breaker

$162.95

5

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Wheel Alignment Tool For Harley

$18.95

8

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Moose Racing 3-Way Valve Core Tool

$16.95

5

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Tire Irons

$14.99 $17.99

20

Stockton Spoke Wrench Kit

$19.99

4

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Moose Racing Portable Tire Changer

$156.95

3

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Valve Stem Puller

8

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

No-Mar YellowThing Tire Bead Tool

$39.95

3

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Oxford Valve Access Tool

$15.39

5

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Tire Iron

$14.99

7

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Ergo Spoke Wrenches

$15. 95 $87.95

1

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Moose Racing BIB Portable Tire Changer

$309.95

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Oxford Tire Gauge Pro

$32.19

3

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

CruzTools Tirepro Tire Levers

$19.95

4

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster 8" Tire Irons

$13.46

$14. 95

10% savings

5

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Tire Valve Puller

$7.21 $11.69

$7.99$12.95

10% savings

4

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Bead Breaker

$32.36

$35.95

10% savings

6

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Tire Bead Holder

$20.99

5

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton 6 In 1 Spoke Wrench

6

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T-6 Combo Lever Hex Adapter 32mm To 27mm / 22mm

$22.95

BikeMaster Dial Tire Pressure Gauge

$12.63

$14.02

10% savings

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

The "Original" Gold Ice Screws

$30.95 $33.95

1

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Rim Protector

14

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Slime Valve Stem Cores

$3.19

$3.99

Sale 20% Off!

1

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Tire Iron Spoon

$15.27

$16.95

10% savings

2

Motion Pro Tire Pressure Gauge Holder

$28.99

3

Oxford Digi Tire Air Pressure Gauge

$37.79

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T-6 Combo Lever Hex Adapter 32mm To 27mm / 17mm

$23.95

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

CruzTools BMW Rear Axle Star Wrench Tool

$18.95

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Tire Gauge With Hose

$18.95

$21.05

10% savings

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Heavy-Duty Tire Iron

$26.96

$29.95

10% savings

1

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Wheel Bearing Remover Set For HD

$41.99 $48.95

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Digital Tire Gauge

$19.77

$21.95

10% savings

4

Hardline Tread Doctor Sniper Kit

$90.95

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Stockton Tire Spoon

$34.99

4

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Slime Power Sports G2 Tire Inflator

$46.36

$57.95

Sale 20% Off!

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Hardline Tread Doctor Tire Tool

$68.95

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Valve Core Tool

$2.26

$2.51

10% savings

BikeMaster Tire Repair Kit

$39.57

$43.95

10% savings

1

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Spoke Wrench

$17.95

1

Slime 9 Piece Tire Plug Kit

$9.56

$11.95

Sale 20% Off!

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro Ergo Spoke Wrench Spline Drive

$17.95

2

Moose Racing Tire Repair Kit

$39.95

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Slime Pro Power Tire Inflator

$94.99

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Valve Stem Mounting Tool

$19.77

$21.95

10% savings

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Slime 2X Pro Power Heavy Duty Tire Inflator

$127.16

$158.95

Sale 20% Off!

Slime 22 Piece Tire Repair Kit

$15.96

$19.95

Sale 20% Off!

1

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro 35mm Blind Bearing Collet

$39. 99

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Moose Racing Tire Changer Tool Tray

$19.95 $23.95

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Steel Tire Irons

$15.27 $17.97

$16.95$19.95

10% savings

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Slime 10-50 PSI Pencil Tire Gauge

$4.40

$5.50

Sale 20% Off!

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Oxford Spindle Key

$23.80

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro BeadPro Forged Steel Tire Bead Breaker

$63.95

137

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro BeadPro Tire Bead Breaker

$82.99

137

Stop & Go Tubeless Tire Shop Repair Kit

$52.94

23

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

Motion Pro T6 Combo Lever Set 32/27/22/12/10mm

$85.95

2

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster 3-Piece Tire Iron Set

$27.87

$30.95

10% savings

4

Closeout

Universal Fit Universal Fit parts can be installed on various vehicles and may require modification.

BikeMaster Spoke Wrench

$9.87

$10.95

10% savings

2

Best Motorcycle Tire Repair Kit

Getting a flat while out riding sucks. Whether you’re on a tour or running errands, getting a flat on a motorcycle is not only inconvenient, it can be downright dangerous. It’s even worse when you decided to pack your plug kit at the bottom of your cases and have to sprawl out all of your possessions along the side of the road like some wandering gypsy in order to find it. The only thing worse than that is not having one at all.

There are all kinds of kits out there and they basically all work the same. Most have the plugs, your various T-handles to clear the area and wedge the plug, and maybe even a few CO2 cartridges to get some air back in the tire so you can limp back to civilization and fill up completely (if you even need to). We’ve left plugs in tires for thousands of miles without any issues, but you do whatever you’re comfortable with. Let’s look at some of the best motorcycle tire repair kits on offer these days.

Table of Contents

  • Dynaplug Pro Tubeless Tire Repair Kit – $60
  • Stop & Go Tire Plugger – $60
  • Bikemaster Tire and Tube Repair Kit – $40
  • Oxford CO2 Tire Repair Kit – $35
  • Slime T-Handle Tire Plugger Kit – $13
  • Aerostich Tube/Tubeless CO2 Tire Repair Kit – $50

The Dynaplug Pro Tubeless Tire Repair Kit may look like a science fiction instrument of torture, but it is a remarkably versatile tire repair tool. Don’t take my word for it. Here’s the skinny from Burns: “Load the brass-tipped sticky plug in the handle and jab it in the hole like a jailhouse shiv, then pull it back out: The shoulder on the brass tip and the gooey nature of the plug are both going to hold it in place.

Check Price

“The Stop&Go is more complex and impressive to deploy than the Dyna,” says John B. “Basically you’re inserting a big steel syringe into the tire, then using the handle’s internal screw mechanism to squeeze that pre-lubricated mushroom head into the tire with the included hex wrench. Once that’s accomplished, pull out the syringe, yank on the mushroom stem a few times to seat the head inside the casing (there’s no glue involved), trim off the excess, and you’re probably good to go – slowly at first please. A little water or saliva poured on the repair will let you see if air is escaping. It’s a little bit MacGyver.”

Check Price

The Bikemaster Tire and Tube Flat Repair Kit has what you need to get back underway. This little repair kit fits easily under many motorcycles’ seats and can repair both tubed and tubeless tires. You get patches, plugs, a plug insertion tool, a hole cleaner, vulcanizing glue, a pressure wheel with surface a preparation tool, and a knife for plug trimming after installation. The kit also features four CO2 cartridges to reinflate your tire. A flexible valve makes hard-to-reach valve stems a non-issue.

Check Price

The CO2yre Repair Kit contains everything you need to plug up a tubeless tire puncture, get you back up to pressure and back on the road. This kit features controllable inflation via regulating valve head, three 16g threaded CO2 cartridges, a reaming tool, tire sealing sticks, an insertion tool, rubber cement, and a handy carrying pouch for easy storage.

Check Price

Slime manufacturers tire repair solutions for dozens of applications from autos, to bicycles, to jet skis. This kit will repairs punctures on motorcycles easily. Included is: rubber cement, T-handle reamer and plugger tools, and five plugs. Best of all, this kit is easy, cheap, and can be found at most auto parts retailers.

Check Price

This compact emergency tire service kit packs small and includes everything you need to make repairs on the road and refill your tires when you are finished. The kit includes cement, patches and plugs for repairing both tube and tubeless tires, a rasp and needle tool for installing the strip-type plugs into tubeless tires, and five 16g CO2 cartridges with an adjustable air chuck that accepts a flexible valve adapter hose to refill your tires. All of this is neatly stowed in a zippered nylon pouch measuring the following dimensions when closed: 7″×4″×2″, 18 oz.

Check Price

Set of bottom plugs VAZ 2110

Stock available

Stock

Stock

Stock available

Store address

Hours of operation

Stock

  • Volgogradskaya street, 105

    from 8:00 to 19:00

    Availability:

    Not available

  • Sukhumi highway, 110A

    from 8:00 to 19:00

    Availability:

    Not available

  • 150 Highway Street

    from 8:00 to 20:00

    Availability:

    Not available

  • Volgogradskaya street, 99

    from 8:00 to 19:00

    Availability:

    Not available

Items viewed

710 ₽

Add to cart 6 pcs.

Code: 000047734 Plug

Stock 6 pcs.

Set of bottom plugs VAZ 2110

Add to cart

Choosing tires for a motorcycle is not an easy task. Like the selection of equipment, tires should be selected based on the type of motorcycle, the nature of the ride. After determining the initial criteria, choose a rubber to find the best option available.

Content

  • What rubber to choose on a motorcycle
  • Motoresin types
  • Transference of tire marking for motorcycles
  • Racing
  • Raining tires
  • Relias
  • Off-road tires
  • Road tires
  • Motorcycle tire components and functions
  • Cord (reinforcing carcass)
  • Board (Zakarains)
  • Protector
  • Side Part
  • What does the motorcycle covers index
  • Index and Metric format
  • SAME
  • TOLITION Direction
  • FRONT or Rehil
  • Other designations
  • Date of manufacture of tires
  • Should I buy used motorcycle tires?
  • What pressure should be in motorcycle tires
  • Running in new tires
  • How to know when it's time to change tires
  • Frequently asked questions
  • Does the condition of tires affect the behavior of a motorcycle
  • Is it possible to put "tubeless" on spoked wheels
  • Installing a tube in a tubeless tire makes sense
  • Is it possible to put an old tube in a new tire
  • Racing tires for the city
  • Selection of motorcycle tires from different manufacturers
  • How to extend the life of rubber?

If you put sport tires on a sport bike, they will grip well in corners but wear out quickly. If you put ordinary touring tires in a sportbike, you can be very surprised by the handling of your motorcycle on the track. It's a good idea to use a tire with multiple compounds - then the hard center wears less on the track and the soft sides hold up better in the corners.

Tire type selection? There are no universal answers here, but there are useful tips that can help a lot.

Motor rubber types

Tires differ in structure, rubber compound, profile or tread pattern. Others differ in appearance - for example, a white rim. All these elements determine the purpose of the tires. That's where different types of motorcycle tires come from.

Sporty, racing, dynamic or classic tyres, motorcyclists enjoy driving. However, each of these categories has different characteristics, which affects the driving style and the final choice.

Motorcycle tire markings

Each tire has a number and letter marking with information about its size and permissible speed. An approximate marking on a motorcycle tire may contain: 150 / 70-16 68 H.

Example designation 150 / 70-16 68 H defines:

  • 150 - profile width in mm.
  • 70 - tire profile height.
  • 16 - rim diameter in inches.
  • 68 is the load index that reports the maximum load that the tire can support. In this case, it is 315 kg.
  • H is the speed index, indicating the highest speed at which the tire can withstand the maximum load. In our example it is 210 km/h.

Racing tires

Race bikes are used on the track where the best performance and therefore the result is important. This applies to grip, stability and properties that determine the speed of acceleration.

The most common racing tires are slick (bald) or racing cut. The first are completely smooth, that is, without grooves and incisions. This solution is suitable for racing on dry pavement - due to maximum surface-to-surface contact. However, this does not apply to ordinary streets. Likewise, riding in rainy weather with these tires would definitely be a bad idea.

Many models of racing tires can only be used on the track. They are marked with the NHS (Not For Highway Service) abbreviation, which means that they are not approved for driving on public roads.

Sports tires are suitable for racing and competition. The chemical composition is optimized in terms of acceleration, top speed, grip, effective and safe braking even in emergency situations. This type of motorcycle tire is not used for daily driving and on public roads.

Examples: Dunlop Sportmax GP Racer, Metzeler Racetec INT, Metzeler Racetec RR, Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa.

Racing rain tires

A separate class of racing tires are rain racing tires. Their task is to remove water from the contact patch, including when the motorcycle is tilted, and the maximum level of grip on wet asphalt. When driving on dry roads, such tires are subject to rapid wear, as they have a very soft composition.

Examples: Pirelli Diablo Rain, Metzeler Racetec Rain.

Touring tires

Touring motorcycles are large motorcycles designed for long journeys. They use special rubber compounds that affect grip and steering precision. It also offers treads that keep the tires reliable even in deteriorating conditions.

For this type of rubber, its resource is of particular importance, since it is precisely such rubber that is most often used by motorcycle travelers in their many thousands of runs around cities and countries. In addition to long routes with different quality of coverage, on which the tourist tire must be equally predictable and safe, long trips are usually associated with a large mass of transported belongings, without which the life of a motorcycle tourist becomes dull and bleak. And the tourist motorcycles themselves, in terms of their curb weight, are increasingly approaching diesel locomotives.

Road-tourist tires must withstand long runs, withstand high loads well. At the same time, the requirements for the quality of adhesion give way to high predictability and a "motorcycle feel" that allows even an inexperienced motorcyclist to feel and stop the development of slips and drifts at an early stage. The main task is not to pass the route at the highest speed, but to reach the final destination in the safest possible mode, while maintaining control over the motorcycle in any weather.

Accordingly, the grooves for draining water in such tires are more developed. And some models are specially optimized to maintain performance on wet roads. The resource of such tires ranges up to 20,000 km. Road touring tires are suitable for the city and travel on road and touring motorcycles. Moreover, for the latter, given their large mass, special “reinforced” versions of tires are sometimes produced.

Examples: Dunlop TT900 GT, Mitas MC50 , Metzeler Tourance Next, Metzeler Lasertec, Michelin Pilot Activ

Dual purpose or enduro touring tires

This includes everything that has already exceeded the simple city treads, but has not grown out of the malice of the pattern to an off-road character. Dual purpose tires designed specifically for those who love hybrid driving style. They let you ride your motorcycle to work on the weekdays and hit the trails on the weekends.

For motorcyclists who prefer different riding styles, there is nothing better than the ability to conquer roads and off-road. Whether your motorcycle is a city bike or a touring bike, with dual-purpose tires, you no longer have to choose one style of riding.

Tourist and all-terrain options are distinguished by increased endurance, as they withstand the load of not only a motorcycle with a pilot, but also a bunch of accessories and things necessary for the journey. The tread changes to a clear pattern that can equally successfully help the motorcycle on simple roads and beyond.

Such rubber is most often put on enduro-touring motorcycles, scramblers and not small-capacity dual-purpose motorcycles (soft enduro for every day).

Such a tire provides a sufficient grip patch with an asphalt surface, the grooves effectively drain water, and the checker tread provides good traction outside the asphalt (on the ground, in sand, mud, gravel).

Examples: Metzeler Tourance, Mitas E-08, Mitas E-07, Metzeler Tourance.

Off-road tires

Rubber for off-road motorsport is divided into two main types - for motocross, enduro. For each discipline, tires are produced for both professional sports and amateur use. The latter are more versatile, and very often manufacturers position outdated rubber models for “big” sports as tires for amateur driving, which remain popular among amateurs. Cross-country tires also require a tire tow bar so that during hard acceleration or braking, the tire does not rotate on the rim and the nipple (nipple) comes off. Used mainly on front and rear wheels, but more often required on the rear wheel due to the high load on the rubber.

Rubber is made not only for a specific discipline, but also for operating conditions. Many factors are taken into account - the type of soil on the track, the characteristics of weather conditions, certain goals, for example, speed and roll, or vice versa, the maximum hook.

An important difference between off-road tires and tires for other motorcycle disciplines is that such tires fall into the category of consumables, manufacturers recommend regularly updating a set of tires. Often, at the beginning of each season, athletes are forced to change tires due to rapid wear. This is due to the fact that off-road rubber has a direct sports purpose - its task is to provide reliable grip at maximum speed while passing the track, so manufacturers think about durability and long service life last.

What is a compound?

It will not be a secret for anyone that the times of synthetic, and even more so natural rubber, are long gone.

Conventional rubber has been replaced by a compound - a synthetic alloy of various monomers and polymers, which has a much higher wear resistance and, most importantly, certain properties.

Thanks to the unique properties, manufacturers have been able to produce specialized off-road tires that correspond to a certain type of soil on the track.

Cross, Motocross tires

Motocross is the most dynamic discipline of extreme motorsport. Athlete, equipment and, in particular, tires of a motorcycle are subjected to severe loads during the entire race. That is why cross-country tires must be hardy, reliable and aggressive.

These characteristics are reflected in the use of a hard cord (steel base) for maximum durability, an aggressive tread pattern with pronounced elements for better traction, and a special compound that is selected depending on the type of surface of a particular route.

For hard, dry ground, use tires with wide lugs (to increase bike control) and a flexible compound that enhances grip on the track. For soft, loose ground, tires with a harder compound are used. A similar type of rubber is used in freestyle motocross in order to extend the life of tires, because. rubber is strongly erased on the hard canvas of iron eps and is selected depending on the type of soil on a particular track.

The rule generally applies: the softer the jumps.

The pressure ranges from 1.5 to 3 atmospheres covering the track - the higher the pressure. But it also happens the other way around - for example, in motofreestyle, riders prefer to inflate tires to a “stone” state for maximum roll and reduce the risk of chamber breakdown in the event of a hard landing.

Examples: Mitas C-19, Mitas C-21, Mitas C-10 Country Cross, Dunlop Geomax MX12 Sand, Metzeler MC360, Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra X - enduro

Unlike motocross, enduro and hard enduro courses are littered with various obstacles such as logs, roots, loose pebbles, truck tires, river fords, and even whole rocks. To overcome such a “tin”, special tires are used that combine the advantages of cross-country rubber and trial tires.

Enduro tires use a softer, extra wide cord and a sticky, highly elastic compound that provides maximum grip on any surface. According to the regulations of international competitions FIM, the tread pattern of enduro tires has a height limit, so enduro rubber has a less aggressive tread than cross-country tires.

In the enduro discipline, tubeless tires are more often used, filled with a special mousse or tubes system instead of air in the chambers, as is the case with motocross rubber. This solution allows you to use the minimum pressure in the tires without the risk of getting a breakdown or slipping of the tire on the rims during the race.

Examples: Mitas E-09, Mitas EF-07, Mitas XT-754

Road tires

In classic motorcycles, the main goal is to get quality grip. Classic motorcycles have weaker engines and slower speeds and do not require special radial designs for high performance. These are safe tires with a simple design.

Diagonal tires are suitable for cruiser class motorcycles. Their sidewalls resist loads and impacts better, a heavily loaded motorcycle with a passenger on board is not a problem for such tires. For powerful and fast power cruisers such as the Yamaha V-MAX II and Harley Davidson V-Rod, radial tires are more suitable. Their sidewalls are not as strong, so the height of such tires, as a rule, is much less. They are less subject to internal heating and wear during movement, especially at high speeds.

Examples: Metzeler ME888 Marathon, Michelin Commander III Cruiser.

Motorcycle tire components and their functions

Tires are made from synthetic rubber (a mixture of petroleum as well as chemicals such as sulfur, carbon black and silicone). They are assembled in stages, starting with the assembly of the cord and belt construction, after which the rubber is applied and molded.

In order for the trip to be as safe as possible, and the choice of tires for a motorcycle to be accurate, it is worth knowing what is hidden inside motorcycle tires.

The most important in motorcycle tire construction are:

1. Cord.

2. Board.

3. Protector.

4. Side walls.

Cord (reinforcing frame)

The cord, called the carcass, is made of a very strong material whose task is to give the tire the correct shape and remove bumps or stress. The carcass of the tire consists of two or more layers of textile cord (viscose, nylon, polyester) that intersect at certain angles.

Sides (edges)

The side walls, which are the thinnest element, are very resistant to deformation.
The bead is the part of the tire that connects to the wheel. It is usually steel wire heavily coated with rubber. The bead fits snugly against the wheel to prevent rotational sliding of the wheel in the tire.

Protector

The tread is the part you see when you choose your tire. For the most part, slicker tires perform better on smooth, dry surfaces, while fatter tires perform better off-road.
The protector is responsible for the traction properties of the motorcycle and the removal of water, sand and other contaminants.

Side

Sidewall - The area of ​​a tire that connects the tread and bead. This is the part of the tire we talk about when we talk about height, profile or aspect ratio. Generally, a shorter sidewall has stiffer sidewalls that tend to flex less. For the rider, this means better handling and cornering, worse shock absorption, and a more difficult setup.

What does the tire index mean

The markings can tell a lot of information, such as what maximum speed the tire should run, how much weight it can carry, direction of rotation (which is indicated by most tires), when the tire was made, tire size.

Index and size in metric format

Metric tire size example: 180/70R-16.

  • The first number (180) is the width of the tire in millimeters.
  • The second number (70) is the aspect ratio, i.e. the height of the sidewall. The height is 70% of the width or 126mm in height.
  • The third number (16) is the rim size. In this case, the rim size is 16 inches in diameter.
  • The letter between the second and third numbers, R or B, indicates whether the tire is bias or radial. If there is no letter, it is diagonal.


Size (Motorcycle tire size)

This is the alphanumeric sequence you see. Example: MU85B16.

  • The first set of letters is the width. MU = 140 millimeters. Refer to the Street Tire Size Conversion Chart for all letter designations.
  • The next letter will be B or R for diagonal or radial.
  • The last number will be the rim size or rim diameter.

Direction of rotation

Tires tend to wear unevenly over the entire area most of the time. This is due to insufficient air pressure, suspension settings and tire stress. There are many things you can do to take care of your tires, but the most important thing is spinning them.

Some tires have a specific direction of rotation to improve wet grip and optimize noise emissions. For tires with a directional tread pattern, the direction of rotation is indicated by an arrow on the side of the tire.

Front or Rear

To optimize tire performance, follow manufacturer's recommendations for changing front and rear tires, always turning tires in the direction indicated on the tire surface. Do not interchange front and rear tires without observing the markings as this may result in poor tire performance and loss of traction.

The front wheel on a motorcycle is usually narrower and has a less aggressive tread pattern. The front rim handles most of the bike's braking and is designed to optimize steering.

The rear tire carries most of the motorcycle's weight, as well as rider and passenger weight. The rear tire is designed to carry heavy loads and also withstand the force exerted during acceleration. They have a stronger construction than the front tires and have more aggressive tread to optimize traction.

These tires have a special marking that indicates the ideal direction of rotation. If the motorcycle tire is mounted against the direction of rotation, it can seriously affect the handling characteristics as well as the ability to grip the road surface. Moreover, improper installation may cause an accident.

Type TL or TT

TL is a tubeless tyre. TT stands for tube type, intended for camera use.

Most motorcycles are now equipped with tubeless tires. Tube tires are used in the simplest and cheapest motorcycles, and those designed for long trips. The advantage of tube tires is the ability to continue driving even with a small breakdown and, possibly, replace a damaged tube yourself.

However, as a rule, tubular wheels are more problematic and less safe to use, because even the smallest puncture of the inner tube results in an almost instantaneous loss of pressure in the wheel. Tubeless tyres, more expensive to manufacture and require more precision in assembly, but safer - whatever gets hit usually stays in them and pressure loss is much slower.

Other designations

Buying new motorcycle tires is a real challenge, especially when it comes to choosing the best option. Rubber should be chosen as scrupulously as spare parts for your steel horse. Like many other motorcycle components, tires have their own markings and codes, and so do tires. It is worth knowing the symbols that are on motorcycle tires.

An important symbol by which you can read important information for the user is a dash. A dash ("-") in the index of a motorcycle tire indicates that it is a diagonal tire. If there was a "B" in its place, then it would be a diagonal tire with a belt, and when the "R" is a radial tire. Additional markings that can be found on motorcycle tires are the letters "TT", which says that we are dealing with tires that require a tube, while "TL" (TubeLess) is a tubeless tire.

You can often find additional markings:

  • M / C - tire designation for motorcycles only. Tires smaller than 13" are not manufactured with this feature.
  • "A" - the designation of a special version of the tire, structurally prepared for a specific motorcycle model.
  • NHS (Not for Highway Service) - refers to a non-authorized product designed for sports.

Rigidity designation on motorcycle tires:

Green is soft. Tires for driving on soft ground.
Yellow is medium.
Red is tough. For hard ground.


Tire date

Thanks to the “DOT” marking, we can see the date of manufacture of tires, the manufacturer and the plant where they were made. At the end of each such description there are four numbers, for example 1819. This means that the tires were produced in the 18th week of 2019of the year. Three digits means that the tire was produced before 2000. In this case, the first two digits indicate the week, and the last digit indicates the year. The presence of the DOT marking on tires informs that this set of tires meets the standards.

Is it worth taking used motorcycle tires?

Depending on the intensity of motorcycle riding, tires should be changed every two to three seasons. Want to save money on tires? There is an option to buy used tires. But how good is this, a safe idea?

Don't invest in motorcycle tires. Each driver has a different driving style and different dynamics, which means that the tires are subjected to different stresses. This affects not only the condition of the tread, but also the general condition of the rubber, which is not visible at first glance. In addition, such a kit will have to be changed faster, and instead of investments, we have a new expense.

Worn motorcycle tires often go through most of their life cycle. If a set of new tires is enough for two, three or even four seasons, then in the case of old tires, further operation due to aging processes often becomes impossible after a year.

Used motorcycle tires are dangerous! The motorcyclist risks driving safety. After all, he does not know the technical condition of the tire and cannot accurately determine whether it was seriously damaged. Every owner of two-wheeled transport should keep this in mind every time he buys tires for a motorcycle.

What pressure should be in motorcycle tires

It is recommended that you regularly check your motorcycle tire pressure with a pressure gauge before you ride. If the motorcycle is running, wait about 3 hours after turning off the engine. This is important because as the temperature rises, the pressure in the motorcycle tires increases, and the factory values ​​​​are indicated for cold wheels.

The optimal level of fuel combustion is achieved at the values ​​recommended by the manufacturer. Low pressure in motorcycle tires leads to intensive wear of the tread. It is difficult to say unequivocally how many atmospheres should be in motorcycle tires. This information is in the vehicle owner's manual. This figure is different for each motorcycle. By the way, it is very convenient to use a compressor instead of a pump.

Consequences of too high pressure
Excessive tire pressure on a motorcycle reduces the contact area of ​​the tire with the road and thus the grip on the ground. This has a significant impact on security. When there is too much air in the tires, driving comfort is reduced.

Consequences of too low pressure
Too low air level causes excessive heating of the rubber. Then it becomes less resistant to damage, its structure may be deformed due to the direct impact of a large weight. This also affects the stability of the motorcycle, driving accuracy.

Low pressure tires are used on sports tracks. Warming up the tire is recommended here, as this provides better grip on the ground.

Recommended pressure:

  • Front: 2.1 - 2.5 bar.
  • Rear: 2.3 - 2.9 bar.

Running in new motor rubber

Motorcyclists should pay special attention to new tires for their cars. They usually have much higher requirements for traction than car drivers. The most experienced pilots know that running in new tires is necessary and affects traction during the first few hundred kilometers.

Tire manufacturers advise motorcyclists to ride carefully for at least the first 150-200 km on new tires. Motorcyclists should not brake hard, accelerate hard, or turn sharply.

A smooth ride for the first 200km allows the rider to get used to the tires and their feel, as well as getting rid of the chemicals on the rubber surface. After running in, check the tires for uneven wear.

How to know when it's time to change tires

Tires wear out over time and need to be replaced. Based on their personal riding style preferences, motorcycle tire wear will vary from rider to rider. Typically rear tires begin to flex, losing their rounded profile as the center of the tread wears faster than the sidewall. Front tires usually wear more evenly across the tread, but jagged wear, known as bowl wear, may begin to show.

Check your tires for adequate tread depth. When a tire is worn on the built-in indicators with a tread groove depth of 1/32 inch (0. 8 mm) or less, or the tire cord or carcass is exposed.

Also inspect the tires for uneven wear. Wear on one side of the tread or flat spots on the tread may indicate a problem with the machine or motorcycle.

Each tire manufacturer recommends different mileage for tire replacement. On a motorcycle that mostly rides on pavement and good quality roads, you can change tires every 10,000 kilometers. A motorcycle that constantly rides off-road and is constantly exposed to severe damage, tires are changed every 4000 kilometers.

It is recommended to rotate the tires as soon as you notice a difference in wear between the front and rear wheels. But before rotating, make sure that this wear is not caused by negligence or mechanical part.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does tire condition affect motorcycle behavior

Tires in poor condition can ruin the performance of your motorcycle and even endanger your or your passenger's safety. It is recommended to check weekly:

  • Tire condition
  • Any impact damage or any sign of unusual wear
  • Check tire pressure twice a month.

When your tires are worn out and become dangerous, you will feel the warning signs while riding a motorcycle. If your motorcycle starts to wobble. If your motorcycle starts to vibrate, makes a strange sound or becomes unstable, this is an indication that the sidewall of your tires is too worn or delaminate.

Is it possible to put "tubeless" on spoked wheels

It is possible, but there is no guarantee that the rubber will work properly. Such activities require skilled workers to produce a tubeless rim from a spoked wheel. It's better to switch to tubeless alloys, depending on your requirements and the bike.

Installing a tube in a tubeless tire - does it make sense

Tubes are not installed in tubeless tires. The disc of a tubeless wheel is not designed for the installation of cameras. The so-called “nipple” of the camera will hang out at the point where the tubeless disc is attached, and in the end it will simply come off. A tubeless tire has less space and the installed tube will not be able to straighten out, air bubbles will appear, which will affect the balance and handling.

Is it possible to put an old tube in a new tire

You can fit an old inner tube into a new tire and save money. However, for safety reasons, it is extremely important to have a suitable tube under the tire. Tubes and tires are clearly labeled for size, and the tube must be the same size as the tire, such as a 14" tube on a 14" tire.

City Racing Tire

Racing tires have a smooth tread pattern that is very efficient in motorsports. The smooth tread provides the maximum contact area with the asphalt, resulting in better traction, better braking and acceleration.

Rubber for the city must have a tread of at least 16 mm. Racing is not allowed for city driving.

Selection of tires from different manufacturers

Motorcycle tire manufacturers say you can't mix tires from different brands. This is not a sales tactic, tires are developed in pairs, traction and handling are determined by testing both at the same time.

How to extend the life of rubber?

Modern motorcycle tires are durable and efficient to work in all conditions. However, like any mechanical part of a motorcycle, tire life depends on external factors.

To ensure that the tire does not lose its qualities ahead of time, some steps must be taken:

Optimum air pressure maintenance:

Tire pressure control is essential to maintain tire performance and to maintain motorcycle fuel economy.

For optimum pressure follow these steps:

1. Maintain air pressure at the level recommended by the motorcycle manufacturer.

2. Check your motorcycle tire pressure at least once a week.

3. Inflate your tires in the morning as the air is cold and will expand even better.

Regularly check tire tread

Checking the tread is a common way to determine the condition of a motorcycle tire. If the wear is above the recommended level, they must be replaced.

Avoid sudden driving maneuvers

While driving, avoid sudden braking and rapid acceleration.


Learn more