Myths and Facts about "scrubbing in new tires"

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Apr 26, 2012 | 08:02 AM

amRRussel

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From: Clarion, PA

Myths and Facts about "scrubbing in new tires"

A pretty decent article I came across on the topic:
How To Properly Warm Up Your Tires - Sport Rider Magazine

In the article the author talks about how the term "Scrubbing in new tires" is misleading.

Quote:

In fact, many of us, me included, still use the misleading terminology of "scrubbing" in new tires, which wrongly implies that the surface of the tire itself needs to be scrubbed or abraded to offer traction. While this may have been the case long ago when manufacturers used a mold release compound, it most definitely is not the case today.

and also

Quote:

The next myth we see perpetuated nearly every time we watch the warm-up lap to a race. Riders begin weaving back and forth in apparent attempt to scuff the tread surface (which we've already discounted) and generate heat. The reality is that, according to every tire engineer that I've asked, there are far more effective ways of generating heat in a tire that are also much safer. Rather than weaving back and forth-which does little in the way of generating heat but does put you at risk asking for cornering grip from tires before they're up to temperature-you're far better off using strong acceleration and braking forces, and using them while upright, not leaned over! Acceleration and braking forces impart far more flex to the tire carcass, which is what generates the heat that then transfers to the tread compound as well (you often see Formula 1 cars weaving violently back and forth because automobile tires operate on a horizontal plane, so they have and use significant sidewall flex to generate heat).

I also found the information on tire warmers interesting too for any track junkies.

Quote:

If you're a racer, or a serious enough track-day rider to have tire warmers, Knoche recommends that you have them on the bike for a full hour to get not only the tread surface of the tire, but also the entire carcass and sidewall section, up to temperature as well. "With modern compounds," Knoche explains, "there are a lot of waxes and oils and (we) have to get them really to temperature. We suggest to get them up to around 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Because what happens is you have to warm your tire not only on the surface but what we look for is touching the wheel and you want that a little bit more than hand warm."

I thought I would share and give some insight for noobs who aren't sure and for the vets to add some of their own techniques, experiences, advice etc.

Apr 26, 2012 | 10:37 AM

boredandstroked

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From: Mesa AZ

While I understand the theory that they don't use mold release compounds anymore I still believe a certain amount of milage is needed before tires are ready to rock. I worked at a dealership and watched WAY too many people crash in the parking lot or street leaving with brand new tires. The same idiots would rocket off with old tires after a service and not have problems even though they had no heat in the tire. Im not saying it takes alot of time, hell I had scrubbed off the michelin man on both sides of a rear power 2ct within 60miles on the street but it still takes a little bit before pushing.

Apr 26, 2012 | 12:34 PM

amRRussel

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From: Clarion, PA

I agree with you B&S. I run new tires through about 4 or 5 heat cycles (cold, hot, cold) to make sure the mold release compounds they don't use are not in my tires. If for nothing else, it's for my own peace of mind. If I'm worried about something not being right on the bike and am uncomfortable, then that is when mistakes are made from being distracted.

Apr 26, 2012 | 01:12 PM

DonnyBrago

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From: UK

That article made me laugh, especially the bit where pirelli said they don't use a mould release compound.

I have a brand new, unfitted and straight from a dealer Pirelli Angel ST tyre, covered in a greasy mould release oil sitting in my garage at this very moment. Just touching it makes my hands oily and sticky, it is across the whole tread of the tyre, the sidewalls and the bead. It may not be as thick or as deep into the tyre as mould release on the tyres of yesteryear, but it's still greasy and wont do a lot for your traction.

Please forgive me for ignoring the bull**** spouted in that article and continuing to scrub in tyres gradually much like every other sensible motorcyclist should.

I'll agree with the warming up section though.

Last edited by DonnyBrago; Apr 26, 2012 at 01:15 PM.

Apr 26, 2012 | 01:35 PM

marc0011

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From: Washington, DC

I just installed new Dunlops and they also had the slippery film on them. I worked at a bike shop several years ago. I have seen people not heed the warning regarding new tires and go down in front of the shop. I agree with the fact that tires ARE slippery until the film has been worn/scrubbed off.

Apr 26, 2012 | 01:37 PM

amRRussel

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From: Clarion, PA

I know what you're saying about the oily residue, but I do know some of the oils are part of the rubber's natural oil, also mixed with the non-existent release compound. Tire technology has definitely came a long way but that is still no substitute for common sense and caution when it comes to safety. Even pro racers have their warm up laps and take the precautions necessary to let them do the mind blowing feats they are known for.