The air pressure in a motorcycle's tires is more than just a number - it is a crucial factor for safety and riding comfort. The air in the tire forms the cushion between the black rubber and the rim and supports not only the weight of the motorcycle, but also that of the rider, luggage and, if necessary, a pillion passenger.
Since the weights of these components vary, the air pressure must also be adjusted accordingly. The vehicle documents or operating instructions usually contain air pressure information with a range of values that indicate these variations.
By default, this information is based on a driver weight of approximately 87.5 kg. If the driver's weight is below this, the air pressure can be adjusted to the lower limit of the specification; If it is above this, the required air pressure tends towards the upper value.
Basically, these days we measure in: bar
Conversion from psi to bar?
1 psi = 0.069 bar
1 bar = 14.5 psi
Factors influencing air pressureHowever, there are other factors that affect air pressure:
Road surface:
The pressure can be increased slightly on smooth motorways and well-developed country roads, while the lower range of air pressure is recommended on rough surfaces and poor road conditions.
riding style:
For the normal driver, nothing usually changes.
For sporty drivers, the air pressure can be easily adjusted depending on the temperature and tire make, as the tire heats up as a result of driving style and the air pressure increases as a result.Tires: Each manufacturer usually specifies ideal values based on the tire, the ideal rim width and the intended use.
Weight:
This requires individual consideration and adjustment. The more weight the motorcycle, the rider or the luggage has, the more the air pressure must be increased, sometimes even beyond the value specified by the manufacturer.
When and how to measure?The air pressure should be measured when the tire is cold, as air expands when warm. It is advisable to always measure in the same place to compensate for irregularities in temperature and pressure gauge. If necessary, it can also be refilled while hot, but then taking into account an increase of around 0.2 to 0.3 bar.
Personal experiences and recommendationsFrom my own experience I can say that the quality of the hoses of some prestigious brands deteriorates and they can lose air. Therefore, I recommend checking the pressure regularly, at least every week or every two weeks.
When it comes to tubes, I am a fan of the Heidenau brand, which is impressive in terms of quality.
When it comes to Harley tires, I like to use AVON COBRA tires because of their good handling properties, especially in wet conditions.
For bobbers and choppers, I rely on Firestone Deluxe, even though they wear out more quickly, especially at the rear.
Overall, it is important to regularly check and adjust air pressure to ensure both safety and driving comfort. Share your experiences and don't hesitate to ask other experienced drivers for advice. Did you like this blog post? Then show us your support by liking our Facebook and Instagram page.
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