How to check and set tyre pressure

What you need

• A tyre pressure gauge (small pen type is fine), or a petrol pump air gauge

Steps

1. Check when the tyres are cold: before you ride, or after the bike has stood for a couple of hours.
2. Find the recommended pressure in your owner's manual or on the sticker on the swingarm or chain guard. Front and rear are usually different, and it is higher with a pillion.
3. Unscrew the valve cap and press the gauge on straight and firmly until the hissing stops. Read the number.
4. Add air if it is low. If it is high, press the valve pin briefly to let a little out. Measure again.
5. Refit the valve cap; it keeps dust and water out. Look over the tread and sidewalls for cracks, nails and stones while you are there.

Common mistakes

• Measuring right after a ride. Warm tyres read higher and you will under-inflate.
• Judging by eye or by pressing with a thumb. It is not accurate.
• Over-inflating for mileage. You gain little and lose grip, especially on wet roads.

When to go to a mechanic

• A tyre that loses air within days: puncture or a faulty valve.
• Bulges, deep cracks, or tread worn down to the wear indicator.

More guides

• Cleaning and lubing your chain
• Checking and changing engine oil
• Brake check you can do in two minutes
• Battery care and hard starting
• Monsoon riding and bike care
• Air filter: the cheap fix for weak pickup
• Your toolkit and a 10-minute monthly checklist