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Tyres > Help > Tyres Help > When should I change motorcycle tyres?
Motorcycle tyres should be replaced when they are no longer safe or able to perform as intended.
This can be due to tread wear, age, or damage – and in some cases, a combination of these factors.
Most motorcycle tyres have wear indicators built into the tread grooves. When the tread depth reaches 1 mm across three-quarters of the tyre’s width, the tyre is no longer legal for use on UK roads. However, many riders choose to replace their tyres sooner, particularly in wet weather, to maintain optimal grip.
Even if the tread looks acceptable, tyres deteriorate over time due to exposure to sunlight, heat, and general use. As a general guideline, tyres older than 5 years should be inspected regularly for signs of hardening or cracking, and tyres 10 years or older should be replaced regardless of appearance. You can check the manufacturing date via the DOT code stamped on the sidewall.
Tyres should be replaced immediately if they have:
You may also replace tyres earlier if switching to a different riding style, season, or terrain – for example, moving from road tyres to off-road or all-weather options for winter commuting.