I know this has probably been done to death in the past, but what tire pressures are you running? I've consulted the internet and got the usual mix of misinformation, hearsay and complete bollocks. So I ask the sages of this site for their insight.
I'm currently running 29 psi Front, and 31 psi rear -solo riding- bias ply tyres. No strange wear patterns, no handling issues, no traction issues. But I'm interested in what pressures others are running and why?
As a backrounder for my interest, the internet tells me:
My opinion is (FWIW):
Looking forward to your responses.
I'm currently running 29 psi Front, and 31 psi rear -solo riding- bias ply tyres. No strange wear patterns, no handling issues, no traction issues. But I'm interested in what pressures others are running and why?
As a backrounder for my interest, the internet tells me:
- Radials generally require less pressure to work- makes sense, creates a heathy contact patch
- Modern bias plys are really different to bias plys of yore - and thus need: a) more pressure, or b) less pressure
I think that while tread compounds have got better (e.g. high silica, better polymers) carcass construction probably hasn't all that much -especially for bias ply - Manufacturer recommendations for your bike are wrong - they just are. They are always too low - no they just are.
- Some think that the maximum pressure (at maximum load) stamped on the sidewall is the ideal 'recommended' pressure for all riding conditions - to which I say "learn to read".
- Higher tire pressure is always better...
My opinion is (FWIW):
- Modern tyres, including bias plys, are bloody good and offer more traction and performance than I have ground clearance, or bravery/skill. I remember that OEM Bridgestones (Mag Mopus anyone?) were considered lethal back in the day, and now Bridgestone BT's are one of the default choices. That Yokohama was where old LP records were recycled into motorcycle rim protectors. Yoko's are now Shinko's -some will think this is not much of an improvement.
- No tyre, no matter how sticky, works on oil, grease, mud, wet leaves, loose gravel, etc. Or when not in contact with the road.
- If you are crashing at least one of the above is usually involved. Road rash has no interest in your tire's stickiness.
- Adding air reduces the size of your contact patch
- Removing air increases carcass flex and in bias ply will generate more heat.
- Bias plys have freaking stiff side walls, so are less reliant on air pressure to provide rigidity.
- I don't ride at the edge of traction, so the performance difference of a couple of psi either way isn't something I'd normally notice.
Looking forward to your responses.
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