The Effects of Cold on Motorcycle Tires

The need for tire safety increases in during the winter. Don’t overlook regular tire service and safe driving practices to keep yourself safe. 

How Cold Impacts Tires 

Extreme temperatures and winter weather impact vehicles, including motorcycles, all the time. They can often put strain on tires, and cold has its own special effects.  

• If you have worn tire tread, the bike might struggle to grip the road in wet or frozen conditions. That increases your risk of accidents because you no longer have control of the vehicle.
• Most importantly, cold can impact the pressure within the tire. As the temperature drops, the air pressure inside and outside the tire changes. That leads to the tires not functioning optimally. This could decrease your mileage efficiency and put strain on your engine. It could also reduce your control of your bike.

You don’t want to put yourself at risk of an accident during the winter. Therefore, do what you can to protect your tires throughout the season. 

Protecting Motorcycle Tires in Winter 

If your tires do not function correctly, they could fail at any time while you are riding the bike. That significantly increases your risks of accidents at any time. However, given that hazardous conditions often beckon during winter, your risks will likely increase as well. 

Consider the following steps critical to winter tire security: 

• Temperatures often fluctuate, even from mild to freezing, in a moment’s notice. During these times, check the bike’s tire pressure. If you need to add or remove air, do so as soon as possible.
• Check the tread on your tires. Generally, tires with depleted tread need replacement immediately. 
• Check the tire regularly to see if there are any slow leaks or abrasions that put your at risk of flats.
• Tighten all the nuts and bolts on the wheel attachment. You do not want to face a loose tire as this diminishes control.
• During your maintenance checkup, have the mechanic check the brakes. You’ll need to maintain this system as part of your overall operating safety. 

If you have an accident, your bike’s insurance policy will likely be able to help. However, it likely won’t pay for simple tire maintenance. That’s up to you to support. Still, don’t let this option stop you from getting the appropriate coverage in the first place.