Tyre pressure

Tyre pressure is one of the simplest and most important things to check on a motorcycle. Too low and the steering feels heavy, the tyre overheats and the edges wear; too high and the contact patch shrinks, grip drops and the ride gets harsh.

The correct pressure is in the owner's manual and often on a sticker on the swingarm or chain guard. Road bikes typically run about 2.2–2.5 bar front and 2.5–2.9 bar rear, more with a passenger or luggage. Motocross and enduro riders often run around 0.8–1.0 bar, and ATVs only 0.2–0.5 bar – so you need an accurate low-pressure gauge.

Check pressures cold, before riding. 1 bar is about 14.5 psi. Check at least every couple of weeks and always before a longer trip, as tyres lose air even without a puncture.