Here is a picture of my rear tire. It looks like it is "cracking" as you will see in the picture. It is doing it on both sides. but this photo is only shows one side This bike is my daily, I don't really get to lean it over on my way to school/work so I was confused why just that area is beginning to crack. This is my first street bike, so I am not sure how normal this is. Do I need a new tire?



Tire is currently 2 years old. forgot to mention the tire has NO cracking on the sidewall, and it still holds air very well

 

Well Ive worked at a tire shop for 4 yrs so I know a lil something. Im pretty sure that the edges wear like that due to cornering / turns seen a lot of motorcycle tires like that. The edges are made of softer rubber than the middle. A tire will crack if it is too old from drying out, but what you have pictured doesnt look like cracking. Looks like cornering wear. If theres no cracking on the sidewall than theres nothing to worry about.

 

thanks boss. I do get to take a few corners every now and then, just need to take it to a track day to learn a little bit

 

That looks pretty normal to me. Wear that looks like that is from cornering and building up heat in the tire. Just make sure u have the proper tire pressure and ride.

 

thanks for the input guys, I think 34 psi is recommended, but I like to run 37 because it makes the bike feel more responsive to me

 

that happened to my tire and my friendly neighborhood bikeshop told me its because i was taking corners while the tire isnt warmed up..