Contact Patch: Recommended Motorcycle Tire Pressures are Wrong

Summary

This script discusses the importance of tire pressure for motorcycles, emphasizing that it should be adjusted based on climate, rider weight, riding style, and tire type. It suggests starting with manufacturer recommendations but testing different pressures to find the optimal balance between grip and tire longevity. The speaker shares a real-world example of testing tire pressure on a 2007 Bandit 1250S with new Pirelli Rosso tires, highlighting the need for personalization and the impact of speed and climate on tire performance.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Tire pressure recommendations on motorcycles are universal but should be adapted to local climate conditions.
• 🏍️ For riders in colder climates like Iceland, tire pressure should be adjusted higher than for those in warmer climates like Doha.
• 🚦 Commuting and riding style (longevity vs. comfort) influence tire pressure settings, with different pressures for daily commuting versus weekend riding.
• 🏁 The weight of the bike and rider combination is a critical factor in determining the appropriate tire pressure.
• ⏱️ The duration of rides affects tire pressure; longer rides generate more heat, potentially requiring higher pressure.
• 🚦 Speed and cornering force impact tire pressure; faster speeds and more aggressive cornering may necessitate higher pressures.
• 🌡️ Climate plays a significant role in tire pressure; colder climates may require higher pressures, while warmer climates might need lower pressures.
• 🔍 It's important to question the source of tire pressure recommendations and consider if they apply to your specific riding conditions.
• 🛠️ Testing different tire pressures in real-world conditions is essential to find the optimal pressure for your motorcycle and riding style.
• 💡 The balance between tire longevity and grip is influenced by tire pressure, with higher pressures generally offering better longevity and lower pressures providing more grip.

Q & A

Why is tire pressure important for a motorcycle?

Tire pressure is crucial for motorcycle performance, safety, and longevity. It affects handling, grip, and the lifespan of the tires.

How does climate affect tire pressure on a motorcycle?

Climate influences tire pressure due to temperature changes. In colder climates, pressure may decrease, while in hotter climates, it can increase, affecting the tire's performance.

What should a rider consider when determining tire pressure for their motorcycle?

Riders should consider factors like climate, weight of the bike and rider, type of riding (commuting or long rides), and the specific tire model being used.

Why might a motorcycle's recommended tire pressure differ from what's listed on the motorcycle or tire manufacturer's data?

Recommended tire pressure can differ due to variations in climate, riding conditions, and the specific motorcycle and tire model being used. It's essential to adjust pressure to suit individual needs and conditions.

What is the significance of the tire pressure sticker on a motorcycle?

The tire pressure sticker provides a starting point for tire pressure settings but should be adjusted based on the rider's specific conditions and preferences.

How can a rider determine the optimal tire pressure for their motorcycle?

A rider can determine optimal tire pressure by testing different pressure settings during actual riding conditions, considering factors like speed, climate, and road type.

Why is it important to adjust tire pressure based on the length and speed of a motorcycle ride?

The length and speed of a ride can generate heat in the tires, affecting pressure and performance. Adjusting pressure based on these factors ensures optimal handling and tire life.

What is the role of tire pressure in motorcycle safety?

Proper tire pressure is essential for motorcycle safety as it affects braking, handling, and the overall stability of the bike, reducing the risk of accidents.

How can a rider test different tire pressures to find the best setting for their motorcycle?

A rider can test different pressures by adjusting the pressure, riding the motorcycle under consistent conditions, and noting how the bike handles at each setting.

What is the trade-off between tire longevity and grip when adjusting tire pressure?

Higher tire pressure may increase tire longevity but reduce grip, while lower pressure can improve grip but decrease tire life. Finding the right balance is key for optimal performance.

Outlines

00:00

🏍️ Tire Pressure Considerations for Motorcycles

This paragraph discusses the importance of tire pressure for motorcycles, emphasizing that it should be adjusted according to the climate, rider's weight, type of riding, and the length of rides. It highlights the need to consider the local climate, such as in Iceland versus Doha, and the impact of commuting versus weekend riding. The paragraph also touches on the significance of the combined weight of the bike and rider, especially for lightweight bikes like the Yamaha R3, and how it influences tire pressure. It raises questions about the duration and speed of rides, suggesting that longer rides and higher speeds may require higher tire pressures due to increased heat generation. The paragraph concludes by encouraging riders to question the default tire pressure recommendations and to consider their specific riding conditions and preferences.

05:02

📏 Customizing Tire Pressure for Personal Riding Conditions

The second paragraph delves into the process of determining the optimal tire pressure for an individual's motorcycle, using the example of a 2007 Bandit 1250S with new Pirelli Rosso tires. It explains the need to consider the bike's weight, riding speed, and climate when setting tire pressure. The speaker shares their personal riding habits, such as average speed and the time of day they typically ride, to illustrate how these factors can influence tire pressure. The paragraph also describes a testing protocol to find the most comfortable and effective tire pressure by incrementally adjusting the pressure and riding to assess the feel and performance of the bike. The importance of consistency in testing conditions is emphasized to accurately determine the ideal tire pressure for a rider's specific circumstances.

10:03

🔍 Finding the Optimal Tire Pressure Through Testing

The final paragraph focuses on the testing process to determine the best tire pressure for a motorcycle. It explains the relationship between tire pressure and handling, where higher pressures maintain tire shape and lower pressures increase the contact patch for better grip. The speaker advocates for a methodical approach to testing different tire pressures to find the one that offers the best balance of longevity and grip for the rider's specific conditions. The paragraph also discusses the trade-offs between grip and tire life, and how different tire compounds and constructions can affect performance. The speaker plans to repeat the testing protocol with different tire brands and models to ensure the findings are consistent and applicable to a variety of tire options.

Keywords

💡Tire Pressure

Tire pressure refers to the air pressure inside the tires of a motorcycle. It is crucial for safety, handling, and tire longevity. In the video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of adjusting tire pressure according to climate, rider weight, and riding conditions. For instance, the speaker mentions that if you live in a cold climate like Iceland, you would need different tire pressures than someone in a hot climate like Doha.

💡Climate

Climate is the long-term pattern of weather conditions in a particular region. It plays a significant role in determining the appropriate tire pressure for a motorcycle. The video script discusses how temperature variations affect tire pressure, with colder climates requiring different pressures than warmer ones. The speaker gives an example of adjusting tire pressure based on the temperature range in Iceland versus Doha.

💡Longevity

Longevity in the context of the video refers to the lifespan of motorcycle tires. The speaker discusses how tire pressure affects the longevity of tires, suggesting that higher pressures can lead to longer-lasting tires but may compromise grip and handling. The script mentions that tire pressure should be balanced with the rider's need for grip and the expected lifespan of the tires.

💡Riding Style

Riding style encompasses the manner in which a motorcycle is ridden, including speed, cornering, and overall aggressiveness. The video emphasizes that a rider's style influences the optimal tire pressure. For example, a rider who commutes at slower speeds might prefer lower pressures for a more comfortable ride, while a more aggressive rider might opt for higher pressures for better tire performance at speed.

💡Weight

Weight in this context refers to the combined weight of the motorcycle and its rider. The video script explains that the weight has a direct impact on tire pressure. Heavier riders or motorcycles with additional loads may require higher tire pressures to support the extra weight and prevent tire deformation that can lead to poor handling and reduced tire life.

💡Tire Compound

Tire compound refers to the materials and formulation used to create the rubber of motorcycle tires. Different compounds are designed to perform optimally in various conditions, such as wet or dry surfaces. The video mentions the importance of considering tire compound when determining the correct tire pressure, as different compounds may require different pressures to perform well.

💡Ride Duration

Ride duration is the length of time a motorcycle is ridden in a single session. The video script discusses how the duration of a ride can influence tire pressure, as tires generate heat during use, which can cause the pressure to increase. Longer rides may require starting with a lower tire pressure to account for this heat buildup.

💡Speed

Speed in the context of the video refers to the rate at which a motorcycle is ridden. The speaker explains that higher speeds can cause tires to heat up more, potentially requiring higher tire pressures to maintain optimal performance and safety. The video gives an example of a rider going 20 miles per hour over the speed limit and how this could affect tire pressure.

💡Tire Deformation

Tire deformation is the change in shape of a tire as it flexes under load, such as when cornering or carrying weight. The video script mentions that tire pressure affects the degree of deformation, with lower pressures leading to more deformation and potentially more grip, but also a larger contact patch and less tire longevity.

💡Testing Protocol

A testing protocol in this context is a systematic approach to determining the optimal tire pressure for a motorcycle. The video script describes a process where the rider starts with a baseline tire pressure and adjusts it incrementally while riding under consistent conditions to find the pressure that best suits their needs. This protocol helps riders understand how different pressures affect their motorcycle's handling and performance.

💡Grip

Grip in the context of motorcycle tires refers to the traction between the tire and the road surface. The video discusses how tire pressure can affect grip, with lower pressures generally providing more grip due to increased tire deformation and contact patch. However, the trade-off is that lower pressures can reduce tire longevity, so finding the right balance is key.

Highlights

Tire pressure should reflect the climate where you live.

Commuting habits affect tire pressure, considering longevity and comfort.

The weight of the bike and rider is a critical factor in determining tire pressure.

Riding duration influences tire pressure due to heat generation during long rides.

Speed plays a role in tire pressure, especially when exceeding speed limits.

Tire pressure recommendations on the motorcycle should be adapted to local climate.

For slow riders, lower tire pressure can reduce stress on the tire.

Higher speeds may require higher tire pressure to handle cornering forces.

Tire pressure is a balance between longevity and grip.

The sticker's tire pressure is a starting point, not a universal recommendation.

Asking 'why' helps in understanding the context behind tire pressure recommendations.

Tire technology has advanced, making modern tires more reliable.

Manufacturers provide tire pressure recommendations based on specific tests and conditions.

It's important to test and find the optimal tire pressure for your specific riding conditions.

Higher tire pressure maintains tire shape, while lower pressure increases contact patch.

Consistency in testing will yield the best results for determining tire pressure.

Understanding the trade-off between grip and longevity helps in choosing the right tire pressure.

The process of finding the right tire pressure involves testing different pressures in real-world conditions.

Transcripts

one of the items that we'll find listed

somewhere on the motorcycle

the little data table with precious four

tires who's that for

exactly if that bike let's say a Yamaha

r3 is sold all over the world in every

climate imaginable open to every sized

human on the planet who can write it

what's that sticker mean first thing

about pressure for tires is climate if

you're living in Iceland and there are

some great motorcyclists in Iceland they

know because I've worked with a few it's

generally cold and in summer it gets

warmer but it doesn't get to

temperatures that you would see in Doha

at low sale circuit

tire pressure should reflect where you

live

do you commute if you commute all the

time then your tire pressures going to

be derived on the data point of

longevity it may not it may be derived

on the point of comfort and absorbing

all the expansion joints in the motorway

or freeway that you ride on so we've got

to figure out what type of writing you

do we also have to figure out the weight

of the bike in the rider and our three

doesn't weigh a whole lot and generally

the people that ride those bikes

generally don't weigh a whole lot either

if the combined weight is quite low type

of writing they do is fairly slow do

they need high tire pressure it's a good

question to ask how long you do ride for

do you ride thirty minutes to work every

day at 30 minutes home do you only ride

on the weekends and you ride in bursts

of about an hour do you ride on the

weekends and ride 200 miles let it go

what's the length of the ride because

the longer you ride the more heat you're

gonna generate in the tires then what's

the actual speed you go through the

cornice at so one of the questions often

asked in countries like Australia and

New Zealand is if you see a sign that

says 65

that's an hour for the corner what are

you going through that and don't lie to

me tell me the truth and no ego oh I'll

do it at 85 okay well if you're going 20

miles an hour over the posted limit how

much is the tire being crushed with

their extra cornering speed and

cornering force tire pressure need may

need to be higher because you're going

faster so if your average climate is 40

to 70 Fahrenheit that's pretty cool if

your average climate is 70 to 110

Fahrenheit that's going to be a totally

different tire pressure than this one if

you're a very slow rider then if you're

going slow you're not creating a lot of

duress on the tire so your pressure can

go down and be lower if you're faster

but your S on the tires is high so

you're gonna go higher so some very

simple common-sense or logical approach

to tire pressure because if you see that

listed on your bike the most important

part about that is who is it for what

climates what type of riding what's the

combo what bike was it tested on for

that data to be true how far did they

write on it and what was the speed they

were doing to come up with that if that

is a universal recommendation for every

human on the planet on most motorcycles

made does that make sense

it makes sense that you need somewhere

to start from but it doesn't make sense

if you're making your motorcycle your

own be the annoying seven-year-old why

why why why so when you get information

like this ask why is that number what if

your bike is a 2000

6r1 Yamaha if you are putting 2019 tires

on that bike is what's on the label for

that bike those tires are extinct

they might not exist anymore if you see

those numbers are they appropriate for a

2019 tire we are blessed with tires

these days and have been for about the

last 10 years ties have been amazing

there's also another historical

perspective here based on the bike that

you have and the tires that you are

purchasing for it because these are our

most consumed item right and maybe the

tires you are buying come with a front

and a rear recommendation oh really

why so at that point you can either

accept what's on the bike in the

documentation or on the sticker or you

can go you're buying new current tires

you can read up on that tire and see

what the given pressure and pressure

range from the manufacturers before you

buy the tire and put it on the bike so

at that point we've got a much clearer

picture about the tire pressure that we

might start with let's use a real world

example of this and take all that

ethereal stuff and bring it to here so

my bike is a 2007 bandit 1250s I'm going

to install new tires on that motorcycle

and they are going to be Pirelli Rosso

two tires it's gonna be a 120 70 front

and it's gonna be a 190 55 rear that's

what I'm choosing now the sticker on my

bike has 36 front 42 rear the tires that

that bike came with don't exist anymore

so I am going to start over so my first

thing about this is well

what pressures do I want first question

is bike plus rider weight it's a lot

it's big heavy bike it's got three

luggage boxes on it and I'm not like so

it's carrying a ton of weight how do I

ride I ride relatively slow on the roads

so I will do 60 to 75 mph on average

that's my comfort zone in which I can

relax and enjoy what I'm doing next

thing what is the climate well at this

point we're getting into summer and

we're starting to see higher temps and

generally where I will ride the bike

the average temp in summer is going to

be 70 Fahrenheit to 105 Fahrenheit so

it's gonna be hot and generally my

writing is gonna be between 10 a.m. to 4

p.m. if I choose to go right that's my

window of writing we figured out all the

variables we need to know now about

getting that detached picture with this

brand and that compound tires because

they're being put on the bike now

precious I'm not gonna go off what the

manual says and I'm not going to go off

what the recommended pressure is by the

manufacturer I am going to test I'm

gonna figure out what I want how does

that work I'm gonna start at 42 cold

front and rear

[Music]

it's hot

a cold pressure when by Nyame it's 70

degrees Fahrenheit isn't a cold pressure

it is a summer pressure versus a winter

or spring pressure whereas significantly

colder maybe by 40 degrees so I'm going

to start here with the cold pressure and

then I'm gonna go ride for about 40

minutes that guess the suspension and

the tires completely heated up a nice

and hot so everything's at optimum

temperature now you might find if you

check your pressure again when you've

arrived at this place depending on the

temperature in the pastry road that you

gained 3 so all of a sudden now we are

at 45 45 hot that's perfectly normal

because the long you ride the more you

heat up the air and the tire in the

water vapor allows pressure to gain so

that's fine so once I know this number

now I'm gonna run a test protocol and I

am going to run 43 43 41 41 39 39 and 37

37 same road same speed and I'm going to

provide the greatest level of

consistency I can so I'm testing here

are these hot pressures and I'm gonna

find on the roads I ride the speed I

ride at the bike I own with these tires

that are brand new to me

that I have not ridden on this bike

before which pressure did I enjoy the

most so what does enjoy mean which

pressure made me feel the most

comfortable on my bike or which pressure

gave me lots of information so I could

be comfortable or which pressure took

away a lot of the bumps in the road so I

realize

or which pressure made the bike flick

sites aside really easy but afterwards

made it really hard to move it from out

side to side so it's too much work

there's lots of ways in which you can

figure out what fun enjoyment means by

doing this testing to find the pressure

you need the other side of that is once

you figure out you know I kinda liked

lights the bike best when it was there

okay so for your next ride you can go

ahead and set it at forty to forty to

arrive reset at forty three and then

just drop it to forty one and now you've

got a very close test now maybe you do

it over two to three miles so you can

really get a very good understanding of

what the bike's doing and how it feels

before you make the pressure lower being

consistent will get you great results

getting the tire pressure right there's

a couple of things so the higher

pressure makes the tire keep its shape

better under load the more you lower the

pressure the bigger the contact patch

gets so if you want the bike to move

side to side and you ride on roads where

you're really agile then how your

pressure will give you more shape and

the by could be more flickable if you

want more contact patch because you're

on the side of the tire and you have

long sweeping bends where you live well

maybe this type of deformation of the

tire and a lot more grip is better for

you

I don't know but if you go through the

testing protocol you'll figure out with

that tire in your environment with your

speed being consistent what pressure

will work for you given the season and

the temperatures that you're in because

we have such a huge array of single

compound to compound three compound

tires all different heights

circumference is a profiles the simplest

thing we can do is actually find the

pressure that works for us and in the

end what that pressure does is put us on

a continuum that is longevity and grip

and somewhere on that continuum your

credit card your debit card or your cash

sits what do you want higher pressure

better longevity lower pressure more

grip with a little bit of testing you

can figure out exactly how the make the

tires work best for your bike and then

once you've figured that out based on

the pressure and where you're at then

there's an expectation about why those

tires will only last as long as they did

because paying for grip is the price of

speed race tires last a hundred and

fifty miles maybe maybe on a good day

how long do on your road tires to last

3,000 miles 8,000 kilometers what do you

need well part of that is centered here

so take the time to do the testing to

find the pressure that works for you

when answering the questions I posed

earlier to give you that level of

information this is an example for the

bar the tires that are going onto my

bike now I am going to use a different

brand next time and a different model

because I can and in doing that I am

going to go through this test protocol

and do exactly the same test

irrespective of the brand of tire the

model of tire the size of the tire I am

going to run this test