Had a new BT014 fitted on my ZX6r only aprox 750 miles ago. Tyre hardly worn. Whilst giving it a once over yesterday, found a bloody nail in the rear tyre not in the tread, but on the main part of the tyre (bit that meets the road)
Pulled it out, was longer than hoped. Tyre deflated in mins!!!
I’ve had tyres plugged on my car before, but is it a good idea with bike tyres, especially as you only have two in contact wth the road? higer speeds etc.
Sorry for what may sound a dim question, but want to be safe than sorry!
As I understand it, it really isn’t worth plugging a bike tyre because of the disastrous consequences that can occur if it fails. Repairs are just for limping to a garage.
plugging a bike tyre is absolutely fine, just has to be at least an inch from the edge/not in the side wall and not close to a 2nd puncture
get it plugged properly at a garage tho (tyre off, proper cemented rear-mounted plug) rather than the roadside kit type. the first is good enough even for track days, the 2nd is more to keep you going (altho some of the courier guys are experienced enough with them to make them last pretty well)
1/ This is a “Get you home” type which you can buy in a kit for £20 or so. Its pushed into the tyre while it’s still on the rim. I wouldn’t trust this further than getting you home.
2/ This is a proper “Tyre off” cemented plug which is pushed through from the inside of the tyre. When done professionally are totally safe and trustworthy.
I had the same problem on Friday… rode over a key (as in a front door key) on my ZX… tyre had done approx. 150 miles. Many swear words later, it was plugged and I took it out for a bimble last night. Problem-free.
