From seasoned bikers to casual riders, everyone seems to have their own "expert" opinions about tyres. But how much of what you hear is fact and how much is pure fiction? Today, we’re busting some of the most common tyre myths to help you make informed decisions and keep your rides safe and smooth.
Myth #1: Racing Tyres Are Better for Everyday Use
You might think that using racing tyres on your daily ride will give you better grip and performance. But here’s the truth: racing tyres are designed for high-speed track conditions, not regular roads.
Racing tyres work best when they’re heated to high temperatures—something that rarely happens during everyday commuting. Plus, their reduced grooves make them unsuitable for wet conditions. Instead, opt for road tyres that are specifically engineered for stability, durability and all-weather performance.
If you’re curious about tyre types for various conditions, check out our blog on choosing the right tyres.
Myth #2: You Should Ride Aggressively to Break in New Tyres
This myth has been around forever: ride hard and fast to "break in" your new tyres. Sounds exciting, right? But it’s completely wrong—and potentially dangerous.
New tyres do need breaking in, but aggressive riding isn’t the way to do it. Instead, ride cautiously for the first 100-200 km. This allows the tyre compounds to settle and the tread surface to scuff naturally, improving grip over time.
Myth #3: Mixing Tyre Brands Is Okay
Some riders believe mixing different tyre brands or types is harmless. After all, they’re just tyres—how different can they be? Well, very different!
Tyres are designed to work as a pair, with matching properties like grip levels and handling characteristics. Mixing brands can compromise your bike’s balance and safety. Always use matching tyres recommended by your manufacturer for optimal performance.
Myth #4: Underinflating Tyres Improves Grip
It’s tempting to think that reducing tyre pressure will increase grip by putting more rubber on the road. While this might seem logical, it’s actually harmful.
Underinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear, reduced handling precision and even tyre damage. Always stick to the recommended pressure levels provided in your bike’s manual for the best performance and safety.
Myth #5: Tyres Are Fine as Long as They Look Good
This one is particularly dangerous—just because a tyre looks good doesn’t mean it’s safe to use. Over time, tyre compounds degrade due to exposure to sunlight, heat and moisture. Even if there’s no visible damage, old tyres can lose their grip and become unsafe.
Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres every six years, regardless of their appearance or tread depth. Before hitting the road, inspect your tyres closely for cracks or bulges that might compromise safety.
Myth #6: Speed Can Fix Front Wheel Wobble
Ever experienced front wheel wobble at low speeds? Some riders believe accelerating can fix this issue—but that’s a risky move!
Wheel wobble can result from various factors like misalignment or tyre damage. Speeding up might temporarily reduce wobble but won’t solve the underlying problem—and could make things worse. Instead, get your bike checked by a professional mechanic to identify and fix the root cause.
Why Busting Tyre Myths Matters
Believing in these myths can lead to poor riding habits or even accidents. By understanding the facts about tyres and their maintenance, you’re not just improving your bike’s performance—you’re also ensuring your safety on the road.
At Reise Moto, we believe in empowering riders with accurate information about their gear and equipment. Whether you’re looking for expert advice or high-performance motorcycle tyres tailored to Indian roads, we’ve got you covered.
Tyre Maintenance Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore
Now that we’ve busted some common myths, here are a few practical tips to keep your tyres in top condition:
- Check Pressure Regularly: Maintain optimal pressure levels for better grip and longevity.
- Inspect Tread Depth: Replace tyres when tread depth reaches the minimum legal limit.
- Avoid Overloading: Excess weight can strain your tyres and reduce their lifespan.
- Store Properly: Keep tyres away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures when not in use.
For more detailed advice on tyre care, visit our tyre maintenance guide.
Separating fact from fiction is crucial when it comes to tyre care and performance. Don’t let myths steer you wrong—make informed decisions based on expert advice and reliable sources.
If you’re ready to upgrade your ride with high-quality motorcycle tyres or need help choosing the right ones for your needs, explore our range at ReiseMoto. Your bike deserves nothing less than the best! Refer to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (India) for comprehensive road safety guidelines and updates.
Ready to upgrade your ride with high-performance motorcycle tyres in India? Browse our latest ReiseMoto Tyres designed for Indian roads and all riding styles. Got questions about tyres or riding gear? Drop us a comment or reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
-Team Reisemoto
