So, you have just mounted a set of Aspira Premio tyres. Congratulations, you have made the correct choice. Now, the object is maintain them so that they provide you with the best performance and confidence wherever you go.

Tyres do require some TLC, although it is not intensive and does not require almost any technical know-how. Remember, you may have the fastest bike on the planet, but it goes nowhere without those rubber donuts.

1. Break them in first (properly)

Tyre care begins immediately after you install a new set. Take it easy for the first 300 to 500 km, or better yet, between 800 to 1000 km to be safe.

Pushing on a new tyre will bear disastrous results as most new tyres are generally coated with mould release. This shiny, slippery surface needs to be scrubbed off before we can begin riding on them to the maximum.

Secondly, breaking in the tyre gently and progressively lets the different components and compounds in the tyre to stabilize. Tyres are made from tens, if not hundreds, of different compounds and they need heat (generated from riding) to “cook” them.

Being too quick to push on the tyres causes the compound hardening up even before it reaches its halfway point. This is the main reason why some riders complain about their tyres losing grip and elasticity when they start to wear. Tyres have “memories” of you treated them when they were new.

2. Take the pressure!

Tyre inflation pressure is everything.

Under-inflation causes the tyre to overheat and wear out quickly. Additionally, it results in higher fuel consumption and sluggish handling due to increased rolling resistance. On the other hand, over-inflation wears out the centre of the tyre quickly. Besides that, traction and comfort will suffer as the tyre could not conform and absorb irregularities on the road surface.

Granted, different tyres have different constructions, thus some are harder, while some are softer, which leads to the temptation to under-inflate or over-inflate them However, the recommended tyre pressures are what the motorcycle manufacturer deems as necessary to support the weight and performance envelope of the bike. You may of course increase the pressure should you carry heavy loads, but do so within sane amounts (increase or decrease by 10 kPa).

Another tip: Do not rely on the gauge at petrol stations because they may not be calibrated over time. The best solution is by having several good tyre pressure gauges so you can leave one at home will carry another with you on the bike. The correct habit is to check the pressure everytime before you ride, but once every two to three days is fine too. Do check the pressure and inflate when the tyres are cold.

3. Inspect the tyres

This should ideally be done everytime before you ride. Look for punctures, foreign objects, cracks or unusual wear patterns. They must be dealt with immediately.

4. Clean the tyres

It is not just about aesthetics, but cleaning the tyres allows you to spot deformities and damages. But do clean them with specific tyre cleaners. Do not use harsh solvents such as petrol, kerosene or diesel, as they will cause the rubber to harden. Consequently, your tyres will not grip like they should. 

5. Puncture repair

The best fix for a punctured tubeless tyre is to replace the tyre altogether. This is because the object which poked through would have cut through the sections that give the tyre its shape, strength, performance and safety.

But we understand that most of us choose to repair that puncture, instead.

If you have tubeless tyres, it is best to visit a reputable workshop and have them remove the tyre and patch the tyre from the inside. Keep in mind that using a puncture repair kit (or “cacing” as it is commonly called) is a temporary measure to help you ride to the nearest workshop. It should not be left in place for the entire lifespan of the tyre.

There is no other way to repair a punctured tube other than to remove it from within the tyre. Better yet, replace it with a new one. 

Conclusion

So, there you go, just five simple tips to ensure that your Aspira Premio tyres last their intended lifepans. Remember that keeping your tyres in good condition not only provides you with maximum enjoyment and saves you money, but also ensures your safety.