Key Takeaways
- Increasing a motorcycle’s tyre pressure is necessary when carrying extra weight, such as passengers or luggage, so that it handles optimally.
- Before going on a long-distance ride, check and adjust your tyre pressure so that you have a safe and fuel efficient trip.
- In cold weather, slightly increasing tyre pressure can improve traction and performance.
- For high-speed riding, increasing tyre pressure helps reduce tyre flexing and heat build-up.
- Using a reliable tool like our AutoPump can make checking and adjusting tyre pressure quick and easy.
When to Increase Tyre Pressure
You might not think it, but there are a few situations where increasing your tyre pressure above normal levels might be best for your bike. You might do this if you’re:
- Carrying extra weight, like a passenger or luggage
- Preparing for long-distance rides
- Riding in cold weather conditions
- Engaging in high-speed riding
In these cases, higher tyre pressure can enhance the motorcycle's handling, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure a smoother ride.
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Impact of Weight Load on Tyres
Imagine you're heading out on a road trip with a friend. As you pack your luggage, you have to factor in that weight on your motorcycle's tyres. More weight means more pressure on the tyres, which can lead to increased wear and tear. Increasing the tyre pressure slightly helps distribute the load more evenly so that your tyres have optimal contact with the road.
When carrying a passenger or heavy luggage, increase the tyre pressure by 2–3 PSI. This helps maintain stability and reduces the risk of tyre damage.
Preparing for Long-Distance Rides
Before you go on a long journey, take a moment to consider your tyre pressure. Long rides mean prolonged periods of tyre contact with the road, which can lead to heat build-up and potential tyre wear. Increasing the tyre pressure slightly will minimise this risk so that you can enjoy a safer, more comfortable ride.
Here’s a to-do list before you set off on your trip:
- Check the current tyre pressure with a reliable gauge.
- Increase the pressure by 1–2 psi if you’re planning to ride for several hours.
- Re-check the pressure during breaks to ensure it remains at optimal levels.
Adjusting tyre pressure for a long-distance trip improves your bike’s safety and improves fuel efficiency—saving you money in the long run.
Understanding Tyre Pressure Ratings
Before you can adjust your motorcycle's tyre pressure effectively, you’ll need to know about tyre pressure ratings. These ratings, usually specified in PSI (pounds per square inch), indicate the optimal pressure range for your tyres. Typically, this information is found in the motorcycle's manual or on a sticker on the bike itself.
Riding with the correct pressure ensures that the tyres wear evenly, grip the road properly, and improve your motorcycle's performance.
Always note that the recommended pressure can vary if you're riding solo or with additional weight.
Consequences of Incorrect Tyre Pressure
Risks of Under-Inflation
When tyres lack adequate pressure, they tend to flex more, which increases rolling resistance and heat build-up. This can lead to premature tyre wear and, in extreme cases, tyre failure.
Under-inflated tyres can negatively impact your motorcycle's handling because they make steering less precise and the bike feel sluggish, especially when making turns. That’s because the tyre's contact patch with the road becomes too large and makes the bike less stable.
Fuel efficiency will take a hit when more of the tyre is in contact with the road. Your engine will also need to work harder to maintain speed, so it’ll consume more fuel.
Drawbacks of Over-Inflation
When tyres are too firm, they lose some of their ability to absorb shocks from the road. This can result in a rough ride where every bump and crack in the road is felt acutely.
Over-inflation reduces the size of the tyre's contact patch with the road and leads to less traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions. It can also make your bike more likely to skid.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjust Tyre Pressure
Tools Needed
Before you start, gather the necessary tools:
- A reliable tyre pressure gauge
- An air compressor or a manual pump like the AutoPump
- A notebook or a phone to record the pressure
Our AutoPump is a good tool to use that’s portable and easy to use, making it ideal for both home garages and on-the-go adjustments.
Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to adjust your tyre pressure:
- Ensure your tyres are cold. Tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold for accurate readings.
- Remove the valve cap from the tyre you are checking.
- Attach the tyre pressure gauge to the valve stem and take a reading.
- If the pressure is too low, use the AutoPump to add air until you reach the recommended PSI.
- If the pressure is too high, release some air by pressing the valve stem lightly until you reach the desired pressure.
- Replace the valve cap and repeat the process for the other tyre.
Safety Tips
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Always check tyre pressure when the tyres are cold to get an accurate reading.
- Do not over-inflate tyres as it can lead to reduced traction and increased risk of skidding.
- Regularly inspect your tyres for any signs of wear or damage that could affect performance.
- Use a reliable gauge to ensure accurate pressure readings.
How Ordiniq Can Help
At Ordiniq, we understand the importance of maintaining your motorcycle for safety and performance. Our range of products, including the AutoPump, is designed to make tyre maintenance simple and effective. The AutoPump is portable, easy to use, and ensures you can adjust your tyre pressure accurately—at home or on the road.
We also offer expert advice and maintenance to help you understand the nuances of motorcycle maintenance. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to keep your ride safe and enjoyable.
With Ordiniq, you're not just buying a product—you're gaining a partner.
We believe in empowering riders with the best tools and information. You can count on us to support you in maintaining your motorcycle to the highest standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I check my motorcycle’s tyre pressure?
We recommend checking your motorcycle’s tyre pressure at least once a month. However, if you're planning a long trip or carrying additional weight, it's wise to check it more frequently.
Should I adjust my tyre pressure for different terrains?
Yes, adjusting tyre pressure for different terrains is a smart practice. For instance, reducing tyre pressure slightly can improve traction on loose surfaces like gravel. Conversely, increasing pressure is better for smooth, paved roads.
What’s the best time of day to check tyre pressure?
The best time to check tyre pressure is in the morning or when the tyres are cold. Tyres heat up as you ride, which can increase the pressure and give inaccurate readings. Checking them when they're cold ensures you're getting the correct pressure.
How does tyre pressure affect fuel efficiency?
Tyre pressure has a direct impact on fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. By maintaining the correct tyre pressure, you can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%.
Why choose Ordiniq for motorcycle maintenance supplies?
We’re committed to providing top-quality products and expert advice to enhance your motorcycle maintenance. Our AutoPump is designed with precision so that you can easily maintain optimal tyre pressure and keep your motorcycle up to speed.
