How Incorrect Motorcycle Tyre Pressure Can Affect Your Ride and How to Fix It
When it comes to motorcycle safety and performance, tyre pressure often takes a backseat in our minds.
However, maintaining the correct tyre pressure is crucial not only for the longevity of your motorcycle like Passion Plus but also for your safety on the road.
Let’s show you how incorrect tyre pressure can impact your ride and how to fix it.
The Impact of Incorrect Tyre Pressure
1. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Low tyre pressure increases the contact area between the tyre and the road, leading to higher rolling resistance. This means your engine has to work harder, consuming more fuel. Over time, this adds up, especially for riders who cover long distances or use their motorcycles daily.
Also Read:- Riding Habits That Can Help You Maximise Your Passion Plus Mileage
2. Poor Handling and Stability
Incorrect tyre pressure, whether too high or too low, affects your bike’s handling. Overinflated tyres reduce the contact patch with the road, making the ride bumpy and unstable.
Underinflated tyres, on the other hand, can cause sluggish steering and compromise your ability to take sharp turns effectively.
3. Accelerated Tyre Wear
Tyres wear out faster when their pressure is not maintained correctly. Low pressure causes the edges of the tyre to wear prematurely, while high pressure can lead to uneven wear in the center. This not only shortens the tyre’s life but also results in frequent replacements, which can be costly.
4. Increased Risk of Accidents
Incorrect tyre pressure compromises your bike’s grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Poor grip increases the risk of skidding or losing control, making it a serious safety hazard for you and other road users.
Also Read:- 5 Reasons Why the Passion Plus Should Be Your Next Commuter Bike
How to Check and Maintain Correct Tyre Pressure
1. Know the Recommended Pressure
The new bikes in India come with a recommended tyre pressure specified by the manufacturer. This can usually be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker near the bike’s swingarm. For example, if you ride a Passion Plus, checking the Hero MotoCorp manual for its specific tyre pressure is essential to keep your rides smooth and safe.
2. Use a Reliable Tyre Pressure Gauge
Invest in a good-quality tyre pressure gauge to check your tyre pressure regularly. This small device is a must-have for every rider. Checking pressure once a week or before a long trip can save you from unnecessary hassles.
3. Check Tyre Pressure When Tyres Are Cold
Always measure tyre pressure when the tyres are cold, preferably in the morning. Riding heats the tyres, which temporarily increases the pressure, giving you inaccurate readings.
4. Use a Quality Air Pump
If you notice your tyres are underinflated, use a quality air pump to inflate them. Many petrol stations and bike service centres provide air-filling services, but having a portable pump at home is always handy.
Also Read:- Hero Passion Plus: Embodying Timeless Elegance
5. Inspect for Damage
While checking the pressure, inspect the tyres for any cuts, punctures, or bulges. Damaged tyres can leak air and cause pressure drops, even if you regularly top them up.
Signs of Incorrect Tyre Pressure
Sometimes, your bike gives subtle hints that the tyre pressure isn’t right:
- The ride feels unusually bumpy or harsh.
- Steering feels heavy or unresponsive.
- Tyres appear visibly deflated or overly inflated.
- You notice uneven tyre wear patterns.
Address these issues promptly to avoid long-term damage.
Why Correct Tyre Pressure Matters
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is particularly important for those who love exploring the thrill of the road with their motorcycles. Whether you’re riding a new bike in India or upgrading to a Passion Plus bike for its reliable 80/100-18 Tubeless tyres, ensuring that your tyres are in optimal condition enhances both safety and performance.
Additionally, maintaining proper tyre pressure helps you get the most out of your bike, especially if you’re considering the Passion Plus price as an investment in reliable two-wheeler performance.
Small Checks, Big Differences
Tyre pressure may seem like a minor detail, but its impact on your motorcycle’s performance and safety is anything but small. By ensuring the right tyre pressure, you can enjoy smoother rides, better fuel efficiency, and extended tyre life.
So, the next time you set out on your Passion Plus or any other bike, remember that a quick tyre check can make all the difference. Keep your rides safe, your tyres healthy, and your journeys enjoyable!