To ensure optimal performance and safety on track days, motorcycle riders in the US need to carefully select and maintain their tires. In this blog, we will discuss the tips to choosing the right tires and their maintenance for a smooth experience.
Let’s begin!
Parameters to Select Tires for Motorcycle Track Riding
When choosing tires for motorcycle track riding in the USA, consider the following parameters:
1. Tire Type
- Racing Slicks: These tires offer the best grip and performance on dry track conditions. They have no tread pattern and are designed for maximum cornering speed and stability.
- Rain Tires: These tires have a tread pattern to provide grip in wet conditions. They are designed for safety and performance in rainy weather.
- Sport Tires: These tires are a hybrid of racing slicks and street tires. They offer good performance on both dry and wet tracks, making them a versatile choice.
2. Tire Size
- Tire Width: A wider tire generally provides better grip and stability, but it can also increase rolling resistance. The ideal tire width depends on the bike’s geometry and the track conditions.
- Tire Height: A taller tire can improve stability and comfort, but it can also reduce cornering agility. The ideal tire height depends on the bike’s design and the rider’s preferences.
3. Tire Compound
- Soft Compound: This compound offers excellent grip on cold tracks and in low-temperature conditions. However, it may wear out more quickly.
- Medium Compound: This compound provides a balance of grip and durability. It is a good choice for a variety of track conditions.
- Hard Compound: This compound offers good durability but may have reduced grip compared to softer compounds. It is a good choice for hot track conditions.
4. Tire Construction
- Radial Construction: This construction provides better stability and comfort, but it can also be more expensive.
- Bias Construction: This construction is typically less expensive but may not offer the same level of performance as radial tires.
5. Track Conditions
- Dry Track: Racing slicks or sport tires with a soft compound are ideal for dry track conditions.
- Wet Track: Rain tires or sport tires with a medium or hard compound are suitable for wet track conditions.
- Mixed Conditions: Sport tires with a medium compound are a good choice for mixed conditions.
6. Riding Style
- Aggressive Rider: Racing slicks or sport tires with a soft compound can provide the best grip for aggressive riders.
- Intermediate Rider: Sport tires with a medium compound offer a good balance of performance and durability for intermediate riders.
- Beginner Rider: Sport tires with a hard compound can provide good stability and durability for beginner riders.
By carefully considering these parameters, you can select the best tires for your motorcycle track riding in the USA and optimize your performance on the track.
Tire Selection for Track Riding
- Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV: Considered as an Editor’s Pick, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV offers supersport-inspired performance suitable for both street and occasional track days.
- Avon 3D Ultra Evo: Known for impressive performance, the Avon 3D Ultra Evo features a unique tread design for quick warm-up times and stability.
- Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22: With new compounds and tread patterns, the S22 provides excellent cornering grip and reduced tire wear.
- Continental Sport Attack 2: Made in Germany, these tires use Multigrip technology for enhanced mileage and grip levels.
- Dunlop Q3+: Ideal for street/track use, the Q3+ offers increased longevity and impressive grip levels.
Tire Maintenance for Track Riding
- Proper Fit: Always use tires specific to your motorcycle to prevent premature wear and accidents.
- Break-in Period: After installing new tires, ride at a slow pace for the first 5-10 miles to allow them to adjust to the road surface.
- Check Tire Pressure: Regularly monitor tire pressure to ensure optimal handling and performance.
- Tread Inspection: Inspect tire treads for wear indicators like wear bars or uneven surfaces, and replace tires when necessary.
- Pre-Ride Checklist: Before each ride, check tire pressure, tread depth, and look for any embedded debris that may affect tire integrity.
- Avoid Flipping Tires: Motorcycle tires are unidirectional, and flipping them can impact traction and safety.
By following these tire selection and maintenance tips, motorcycle riders can enhance their track riding experience while prioritizing safety and performance.
