When to Change Bike Tyres? 7 Warning Tips You Should Not Ignore it

Maintaining your bike is essential to ensure it runs smoothly and safely. One important aspect of bike maintenance is keeping an eye on your tyres and knowing when it is time to change them. Not only do worn-out tyres affect your bike's performance and handling, but they can also be dangerous to ride with. If you're not sure when to change your bike tyres, here are seven helpful tips to keep in mind. From checking for visible wear and tear and considering the type of riding you do to having the right kind of bike insurance  for you, these tips will help you know when it's time to replace your tyres and keep your bike running at its best.

7 Helpful Tips on When to Change Bike Tyres

1. Check Wear and Tear

One of the most obvious signs that it's time to change your bike tyres is when they start to show visible wear and tear. This can include flat spots, cracks in the tread or sidewalls, or thinning of the tread. If you notice any of these issues, it's time to replace your tyres.

2. Know the tyre’s age

Even if your tyres don't show any visible wear and tear, it's still a good idea to replace them every few years. Over time, tyres can dry out and become brittle, which can make them more prone to punctures and other damage. As a general rule of thumb, it's a good idea to replace your tyres every three to five years, depending on how much you ride. Additionally, you should also remember to do your two-wheeler insurance renewal at the right time to tackle unexpected situations in the future.

3. Evaluate performance

If you notice that your bike isn't performing as well as it used to, it might be time to change your tyres. Worn tyres can affect your bike's traction, handling, and overall performance. If you feel like your bike is slipping or sliding more than usual, or if it's not cornering as well as it used to, it might be time to replace your tyres. *

4. Check how often you get punctures

If you're constantly getting flat tyres, it might be time to replace your tyres. While it's normal to get a flat tyre every once in a while, if you're getting them frequently, it could be a sign that your tyres are worn out and more prone to punctures. Additionally, it would be helpful to have a good motor insurance plan with road assistance coverage in case your bike ends up having a flat tyre while you’re travelling. *

5. See where you ride often

The type of riding you do can also affect how often you need to change your tyres. For example, if you do a lot of off-road riding, you might need to replace your tyres more often due to the rough terrain. On the other hand, if you mostly ride on smooth roads, your tyres might last longer. *

6. Know the weight of your bike

The weight of the bike can also play a role in when to change the bike’s tyres. If you have a heavier bike, your tyres will wear out faster due to the increased stress on them. In this case, you might need to replace your tyres more often. Ensuring proper maintenance of your bike also makes you favourable as a policyholder in the eyes of your bike insurance provider. *

7. Pay attention to tyre pressure

The tyres on your bike are essential for mobility, so it's important to take care of them and make sure they are in good condition. One way to do this is to maintain the proper tyre pressure, as this can help reduce uneven wear and tear on the tyres and improve their performance on the road. Be sure to check the recommended tyre pressure level for your bike and inflate or deflate the tyres as needed.

How to Choose the Best Tyre for Your Two-Wheeler

Selecting the right tyre for your two-wheeler is crucial for safety, performance, and comfort. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Tyre Size

Check the size mentioned on your bike’s current tyres and ensure the new ones match the manufacturer’s recommendations. Proper sizing ensures a good fit and optimal performance.

2. Type of Tyre

Choose between tube tyres, which are affordable but prone to punctures, and tubeless tyres, which are more durable, puncture-resistant, and require less maintenance.

3. Tread Pattern

Select tyres with an appropriate tread pattern based on your riding conditions. Sport tyres offer better grip for dry roads, while touring tyres are ideal for long-distance rides and wet conditions.

4. Material and Quality

Go for tyres made from high-quality rubber compounds for better grip, durability, and performance.

5. Weather and Terrain

If you ride in varying weather or off-road conditions, choose tyres designed for those conditions.

Tools and Equipment When Change Bike Tyres

Before you begin, gather the following tools and equipment:

1. Valve core tool
2. Bead breaker
3. 2 C-clamps (optional)
4. Tyre irons or spoons
5. Silicone lubricant spray
6. Breezer tyre tool
7. Air pump compressor
8. Gloves
9. Waterproof attire
10. Wheel wedges
11. Working flashlight
12. Flat wooden board

Process to Change Bike Tyres: Step-by-Step

Follow these 10 easy steps to replace your bike tyre effortlessly:

Step 1: Detach the Wheel From Your Motorcycle H3

1. Lift your bike's end to raise its wheel off the ground.
2. Remove the axel using a socket and unleash the chain.
3. Take out the brake calliper and put the axel back to maintain the calliper's position.

Step 2: Remove the Schrader Valve and Let the Air Escape

1. Use a valve core tool to unscrew or snap into the valve.
2. Allow the air to escape completely from the tyre.

Step 3: Mark Your Wheel’s Spin Direction

Use a permanent marker to draw an arrow at the outer edge of the rim to denote the spinning direction.

Step 4: Break Your Bike Tyre’s Bead

1. Use a bead breaking tool to insert between the wheel rim and tyre.
2. Move it around the bead to loosen the tyre.
3. Apply silicone lubricant or a soap and water mixture to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Lift Your Bike’s Tyre off the Rim

1. Use tyre levers or spoons to raise the bead and remove it from the rim.
2. Carefully insert the levers and push down to pull out the tyre.

Step 6: Clean and Lubricate the New Tyre and Inside of the Rim

1. Clean the rim's inner part to remove debris.
2. Coat the new tyre's boundary with bead lubricant or hand soap.

Step 7: Place That New Tyre on Your Bike’s Rim

1. Match the spinning direction marked earlier.
2. Locate the red dot beside the valve stem for proper alignment.

Step 8: Attach One Side of Your Bike’s Tyre on the Rim

1. Squeeze and shove the tyre under one side of the rim using tyre spoons.
2. Repeat the process on the other side of the rim.

Step 9: Inflate Your Tyre and Reinstall the Valve Stem

1. Partially inflate the tyre until you hear a popping sound.
2. Reinsert the valve stem and tighten it securely.

Step 10: Re-mount the Wheel onto the Motorcycle

1. Follow your user’s manual for remounting the wheel.
2. Check tyre pressure, align wheels, adjust chain tension, and tighten fasteners.

Do’s and Don'ts of Changing a Bike Tyre

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Do’s of Bike Tyre Replacement:

1. Remove the wheel and let all air out before starting.
2. Spray lube after each step.
3. Air the tyre to the correct PSI.

Don’ts of Bike Tyre Replacement:

1. Don't inflate the tyre before fixing the bead properly.
2. Avoid using the wrong type of lube.
3. Don't mess with wheel alignment.

Additional Considerations

1. It's recommended to change both bike tyres simultaneously for balanced performance.
2. Ensure proper cleaning and lubrication before installation.
3. Tighten all screws and fasteners securely to prevent accidents.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, it's important to regularly check your bike tyres and be aware of the signs that it's time to replace them. Visible wear and tear, age, performance, punctures, type of riding, weight, and road conditions can all play a role in determining when to change your bike tyres. By paying attention to these factors and replacing your tyres when needed, you can improve your ride and extend the life of your tyres. And don’t forget, having bike insurance can give you peace of mind and protect you in case of any accidents or unforeseen issues with your bike. So, make sure to invest in a good bike insurance policy to keep you and your bike covered. To ensure you get the right coverage for the right price, use a two-wheeler insurance premium calculator. Properly maintaining your bike, including replacing your tyres, when necessary, can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable ride every time you hit the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it affect my ride if the wheels are not balanced after a tyre change?

Proper wheel balancing ensures smooth and stable riding. Unbalanced wheels may cause vibrations and affect handling.

How long can it take to change a motorcycle tyre?

The tyre change process typically takes about half an hour on average, but it may vary based on experience and equipment availability. Mastering the art of changing bike tyres empowers you to handle unexpected situations confidently and ensures a safe and smooth riding experience. With proper maintenance and care, your bike tyres will serve you well on every journey. *Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.