Continuous riding on motorways 'could damage tyres on motorbikes'

Date: 19/7/2010

Motorcyclists may be putting road safety at risk with continuous upright riding on fast, straight routes, one expert has suggested.

Gary Hartshorne from TyreSafe said long journeys on motorways can cause the tyre to square-off, which in turn means it loses grip.

However, this can be prevented by riding on winding roads.

Other factors can also cause the problem, including the compound of the wheel and materials used.

Those with a pointy profile are more likely to suffer square-off as the tyres age.

Mr Hartshorne remarked: "If tyres are underinflated this will cause squaring-off, as would running them overinflated."

Director of Safety for the Motorcycle Industry Association Karen Cooke explained bikers need to be aware of any unusual handling characteristics.

Last week, a Motor Cycle News survey of 6,500 people indicated road conditions need to be improved to enhance motorcyclists' safety.

Of those questioned, thirty-six per cent claimed motorists should be made more aware of bikers.

Posted by Sarah Bailey