Updated December 1st, 2023
How do you know when to change your mountain bike tires? MTB tires are not cheap, costing between $50 to $90 per tire these days for high-quality ones. Naturally, you want to maximize their lifespan. However, it’s important to find the right balance, so you don’t end up walking home due to a tire blowout or compromising your safety on the trails. By giving your tires regular attention, you can assess when it’s time to replace them. This way, you can save money by not replacing them too soon and avoid potential accidents.
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5 Easy Ways To Tell When To Change Your Mountain Bike Tires
By paying close attention to your tires, you can easily determine when it’s time for a replacement. Take a look at them after every few rides and observe how they feel when riding.
1 – Knobs worn flat
Check the condition of the knobs on your tires. It’s crucial to assess both the center knobs and the edge knobs. The center knobs provide climbing and braking traction, while the edge knobs offer cornering traction. To ride your mountain bike safely, you need both intact. If the knobs are worn down to only 1-2mm or are torn off, it’s time to change the tire. Alternatively, you can use a tire tread measuring gauge for a more precise measurement.
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Comments: One way to extend the life of your mountain bike tires is to rotate them. By swapping the front and rear tires, you can distribute the wear more evenly and make the most out of each tire.
2 – Losing traction
Pay attention to how your bike feels while riding. If you notice that it’s becoming less stable in corners or lacks the same grip as before, it’s probably time for new rubber. Some mountain bike tires start losing traction when they reach 10-15% treadwear.
3 – Holes or gashes in the tire
While tubeless tire sealant can handle small holes, larger ones or gashes in the sidewall may require a new tire. There are repair kits available for smaller damages, but if your tire has significant sidewall damage or multiple holes, it’s best to consider a replacement.
4 – Bumps or blisters in the tire
Mountain bike tires have multiple layers of rubber, including a casing underneath the tread surface and sidewall protection layers. If you notice any bumps or blisters on the tire, it indicates delamination of the rubber layers. At this point, your tire has lost its integrity and should be replaced.
5 – Cracking in the rubber
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As a tire ages, exposure to UV rays and chemicals in the air can cause the rubber to dry out and crack. Once you start noticing cracks along the edges of the knobs or sidewalls, it’s time to replace the tire.
Comments: Remember, tire pressure is also important for maintaining the lifespan of your tires. Make sure to check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels.
Frequently Asked Questions about When to Change Mountain Bike Tires
Q: How long do mountain bike tires last?
A: The lifespan of mountain bike tires can range from 500 to 2000 miles, depending on the tire quality and how aggressively they are ridden. Rear tires tend to wear out faster than front tires.
Q: How long do mountain bike tires last on pavement?
A: Mountain bike tires ridden on paved or smooth surfaces tend to last longer compared to rough technical terrains. A gentle pavement ride can extend the lifespan of a tire to around 1000 to 2000 miles.
Q: How often do bike tires need to be replaced? Do they go bad sitting around?
A: Mountain bike tires should be replaced when the tread is worn out or the rubber has aged and deteriorated. Bike tires can last around 5 years before the rubber becomes dry and cracks.
Q: Should I replace both bike tires?
A: No, it is not necessary to replace both bike tires simultaneously. Most people wear out their rear tire twice as fast as their front tire. In such cases, replacing the back tire with the front tire and installing a new front tire is a common practice.
Q: Do mountain bike tires have a wear indicator?
A: Mountain bike tires do not have a built-in wear indicator like some road tires do. When you notice the knobs wearing down, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to replace the tires.
Q: Where can I get replacement mountain bike tires?
A: Chain Reaction Cycles and JensonUSA are both reputable online stores where you can order replacement mountain bike tires.
Comments: Remember to consider the terrain you primarily ride on when selecting new tires. Different terrains require different tread patterns and designs.
Conclusion
Taking care of your mountain bike tires is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. By regularly inspecting your tires and paying attention to wear indicators, you can determine when it’s time for a replacement. Remember to consider factors like tread wear, traction loss, damage, and cracking when assessing the condition of your tires. By doing so, you can ride with confidence and prolong the lifespan of your mountain bike tires.
Comments: It’s always a good idea to consult with a local bike shop or an experienced rider for personalized advice on tire selection and maintenance. They can provide valuable insights based on the specific riding conditions in your area.
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