Tire Maintenance 101: Keep Your Tires in Top Shape This Base Season
It’s easy to neglect bike maintenance during the colder months, but as we progress further into base season, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves to keep our bikes in top shape — especially our tires, which are essential for safety, performance, and overall cycling experience. This month, we’re focusing on key topics to help you get the most out of your tires, including how to spot wear, extend their lifespan, and know when it’s time for an upgrade. Let’s get rolling!
The Basics of Tire Care
Your tires are the only contact point between you and the road. Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring a smooth, safe ride. Here are some key tips for tire upkeep:
- Check tire pressure regularly: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, while over-inflated tires are more prone to punctures. Always follow the recommended PSI range printed on the side of the tire.
- Inspect for damage: Before every ride, take a few moments to look over your tires. Check for cuts, punctures, or objects lodged in the tread.
- Keep them clean: A clean tire performs better. After each ride, wipe down your tires to remove dirt, grime, and debris that could affect performance. If you’re changing tires on a tubeless setup, be sure to remove any leftover sealant as well.
Understanding When a Tire Starts to Wear Out
Even the best tires have a limited lifespan. Knowing when to replace them is key to avoiding issues on the road. Here are a few signs that it’s time to start thinking about a replacement:
- Worn tread: The tread of your tire should have a noticeable pattern or depth. If it becomes smooth, the tire’s ability to grip the road diminishes, especially in wet, wintery conditions.
- Sidewall damage: Cracks or bulges in the sidewall of the tire can indicate internal damage, and these tires should be replaced immediately for safety.
- Frequent flats: If you find yourself constantly dealing with punctures or flats, it might be a sign that your tires are no longer offering adequate protection.
How to Bring Longevity to Your Tires
Tires are an investment, and with the right care, they can serve you well for hundreds of miles. Here’s how to maximize their lifespan:
- Rotate your tires: Rotating your bike tires can help ensure even wear. If you ride a bike with two tires of the same type, consider switching them every few hundred miles to prevent your rear from wearing faster.
- Avoid unnecessary wear: Try to avoid riding on rough roads with your road tires or pavement on your gravel and mountain bike tires when possible. The fewer harsh conditions your tires face, the longer they’ll last.
- Store your bike properly: When your bike isn’t in use, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. UV rays can degrade tire rubber over time, leading to premature wear.
When to Know It’s Time to Upgrade Your Tires
As your cycling needs evolve, so should your gear. Whether it’s performance, comfort, or safety, your tires play a big role in your ride. Here are some signs it might be time for an upgrade:
- Improved performance: If you’re riding more often, or tackling longer, more demanding rides, you might want to upgrade to a tire that offers lower rolling resistance, better grip, or enhanced durability.
- New riding conditions: Different tires are designed for different environments. If you’ve started riding in different conditions (e.g., gravel, wet weather), it might be time to switch to a tire that’s more suited to those conditions.
- Tire age: Even if your tire doesn’t show obvious signs of wear, tires have a shelf life. Rubber compounds degrade over time, and after a few years, even a tire that’s been stored properly may need replacing.
Our Picks for Every Winter Ride
- Road: The toughest road tire for the harshest conditions, the RideArmor offers exceptional durability and long wear-life, with a focus on comfort and grip in all asphalt and weather conditions.
- MTB: The Syerra Down-Country combines aggressive, fast-rolling design with excellent grip, making it ideal for both climbs and descents. Its tread is optimized for traction on rocks, roots, and under braking, while the spacious knob layout clears muck and soil. Despite its added cushion and traction, the tire remains lightweight, allowing for quick acceleration and smooth rolling over challenging terrain.
- Gravel: The Mezcal delivers grip and speed for gravel and ‘cross, with a center tread that excels on fast sections and shoulder knobs for solid cornering. Siping throughout enhances traction on technical terrain, ensuring better control over gravel, roots, and pavement.
Keep Your Tires in Top Shape This Base Season
Base season is the perfect time to inspect your tires and ensure they’re in top condition as you rack up the miles. Follow these simple maintenance tips to extend their lifespan and enhance your overall cycling experience. Regular checks and care can make all the difference!
CTA: [Shop our winter picks here]
