バイクにはなぜスタッドレスタイヤがないのか？

Summary

In this video, the host explores the intriguing topic of why motorcycles generally do not have studded tires, unlike cars. He clarifies that while studded tires do exist for motorcycles, their availability is limited to specific sizes and models, mainly due to the unique demands of motorcycle riding in snowy and icy conditions. The host shares insights into homemade solutions and experiments with alternative methods, like wrapping ropes or using spray-on products, only to find them ineffective or temporary at best. The discussion also touches on legal and practical considerations for riding motorcycles in winter, including the rare use of studded tires for commercial bikes and the challenges faced by riders in snowy regions. The video concludes with an announcement of an upcoming event related to classic motorcycles and biking culture.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video is trying to explain why there are no studless tires for motorcycles
• 🚲 Studless tires for motorcycles do exist but are limited to certain small tire sizes
• ⛓ Spike tires for motorcycles also exist but are mostly handmade/customized
• 🚥 It's prohibited by law to ride a motorcycle without proper traction measures in snow/ice
• ❄️ Studless tires don't make motorcycles very rideable on snow/ice due to less traction
• 🏍 Rider skill is much more important than studless tires for riding motorcycles on snow/ice
• 🚧 Wrapping ropes around tires doesn't help traction much and can be dangerous
• 🥶 Motorcycles are less popular in winter since the riding population decreases a lot
• 🔧 Studless/spike tires are more common on commercial motorcycles for work/deliveries
• 😊 The video also advertised an upcoming art & motorcycle event in Niigata

Q & A

Why don't motorcycles have studless tires?

Motorcycles do have some studless tire options, but the sizes and models available are limited compared to cars. Studless motorcycle tires are generally only made in small sizes around 14-17 inches.

Are spike tires for motorcycles illegal?

No, spike tires are allowed for motorcycles and mopeds under Japanese road laws, unlike cars where they are banned. As long as proper traction measures are taken, two-wheeled vehicles can use spike tires.

Can you wrap straw ropes around tires for traction?

Wrapping straw ropes or tie bands around tires does not provide real traction. It may help temporarily get unstuck, but the ropes/bands will tear off and get tangled in the drive components, causing bigger problems.

What is the difference between studless and spike tires?

Studless tires have embedded hard rubber studs, while spike tires have protruding metal pins. Spikes grip better on sheer ice, but studless performs better in powder snow.

What size studless tires are available for motorcycles?

For motorcycles, studless tires are generally made in sizes around 130/90-17, 120/90-17 or 120/80-17.

Can you use car studless tires on a motorcycle?

You can mount car studless tires on a motorcycle, but traction and handling will be very poor. The different tire construction is not suitable for a bike's suspension.

Are there any studless tires for large motorcycles?

No, there are currently no studless tire options for bigger motorcycles like 500cc and up. The market demand is lower since fewer people ride in winter conditions.

What is the legality of using studless motorcycle tires?

As long as proper traction measures like studless or spike tires are used, it is legal to ride a motorcycle on snow/ice. Using summer tires in winter conditions violates traffic laws.

Should tire pressure be lowered with spike tires?

Adjusting pressure helps - lower pressure brings spikes out more for powder snow, higher pressure embeds them into ice.

What is the motorcycle meet-up event being organized?

A classic vehicles and motorcycles meet-up is being organized in Niigata in May 2024, with original artwork on display.