Tyre Squaring and tips

BennyC · 12 Jul 2011 at 08:04

I think I'm being a little paranoid in that my rear tyre seems to be squaring. There's plenty of tread left on it though it does seem to have a little flat spot. They are Pirelli somethings I'll have to check later.

Being an inexperienced/new rider I'm not quite sure if it's fine and I'm just being silly, I'll try and grab some photo's this afternoon.

Obviously getting the bike over round bends etc is going to help even out the wear. So I'll try and find some windy roads this weekend or go around a roundabout again and again.

I also read that engine braking will increase wear on the rear tyre? Is this true?

Any other tips for keeping squaring to a minimum other than slamming it in to courner which I don't have the confidence to do yet!

Thanks,

BennyC

Edit: It's a second mode of transport so isn't used for regular commuting or motorway miles mostly residential & main roads with the odd motorway journey.

Sagalout · 12 Jul 2011 at 08:15

Tyres square off under normal road usage - it's just how it is because unless you live on the Stelvio or a track the vast majority of your riding is going to be upright. Don't worry about it though. It's not dangerous, and it happens gradually so you don't really notice until you finally replace it then the handling feels wonderful again!

The best tyres I've used for not squaring too much were Avon storms. A track day can also help.....not a cheap solution but a lot of fun!

Kaeo · 12 Jul 2011 at 08:19

You don't really need to slam it anywhere. Take it out a couple of weekends in a row and wear in those sides. Start soft and progressively take sharper corners at speed.

Works both for your bike, and your confidence.

Engine braking technically wears the back tyre, but you'll learn when the best time to use it and the best time to brake is. Realistically if you're not engine braking, you're wearing pads anyway, so it makes very little difference. I tend to look ahead in advance and engine brake until I need more braking force.

BennyC · 12 Jul 2011 at 13:34

Thanks,

Tyre pressues, I'll consult my handbook. Should I take some notice as to the recommended PSI written on the rubber too?

Souleh · 12 Jul 2011 at 14:56

zx6r.. ~38 rear / ~36 front and drop when on the track