As much as we try to prevent it, tire wear is unavoidable. Whether it’s a matter of time or an accidental tear from riding through some broken glass, tires need to be checked and replaced on a regular basis. But how do you know when it’s time to give your bike a new set of tires? To keep your bike in good condition, here are five signs that your bike tires must go.
Nicks and Tears
This one is simple. We all know that roads are often littered with debris that can impact the health of your tires. From time to time, especially after rain, make sure to check if anything has punctured through the casing. If you find any holes or tears, it’s time to change your tires.
Fraying Tread
A disappearing tread pattern is a good sign that it’s time to replace your tires. If your bike has tread wear indicators (TWI), keep an eye out on the two small circular indents located in the center tread area to gauge the wear of your tires.
Cracked Rubber
If your bike hasn’t seen some action for a while, check to see the state of the rubber. If you find that cracks have started to become visible, it means your tires have become brittle and are no longer safe for the road.
Constant Flats
Flats happen but if they continue to occur daily, something’s not right. Look for tread wear to see if you can spot punctures or tears and make sure that your tires are correctly positioned. If the problem continues, it’s time to go to the bike shop.
Exposed Casing
Another sign to look out for is worn-down casing. This is your bikes last line of defense. If the tire’s nylon threads are showing, take your tires to get replaced immediately.
Changing road bike tires doesn’t have to be confusing. If you find yourself unsure whether it’s time to get a new set of rubbers or have any other concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. Trust us, we’ll get you back on the road in no time!
