Quick question - tyre pressure - i know it makes a difference but what is it? Yes I know air = good and NoAir = BAD but I was thinking more subtly than that.
I noticed that all the stunts i see are with bikes that have a practically a flat rear - obviously this is to increase the surface contact so i guess there must be a school of thought that has an opinion on what pressures to inflate tyres according to what you want to do.
My tyres say one pressure, Honda service manual says another! Whats the general rule of thumb if you want maximum grip (especially around corners) can anyone suggest pressures?
Bike: 2001 CBR 600 F4i
Tyres: Damn I cant remember and im at work so cant check!
The manual for my ZX6R states 36f 42r but B suggested 34f 36r which is much more stable and feels good. I tried 36f 38r to see what it feels like and although it steers faster it doesn’t give as much confidence and feels more jittery.
Yes it can get very confusing but there are a few things to take into consideration.
The manufacturer will recommend a certain pressure but that only applies to the original tyres fitted. Due to possible litigation they tend to recommend a one pressure fits all, so tend to be too high to cater for two up riding. That’s why I’ll always suggest a few psi lower. To avoid any litigation this is only my opinion.
If you have different tyres from std fitted check with the tyre manufacturer for their recommended pressures as they very often are different.
And, if I may be so bold, I’d suggest getting a decent gauge. You can get ones to put in your pocket. Garage gauges are not all accurate, so it’s no good thinking you’re running 36psi when it’s actually 38 or 34.
Your pocket gauge may also be inaccurate, but the benefit of always carrying the same one in your pocket is that you can always top up to the same level (i.e. using a constant level on your pocket gauge), even if that level isn’t what your pocket gauge says it is.
Im going to try 34f and 36 r and see how that feels - I’ve already invested in a digital gauge as the station gauges are wildly off - I normally over fill and then take them down to the pressure required using my digital reader.
I was tempted by the pen style ones but they require lubricating every so often which i thought was a bit antiquated - they also let the air out as they read whereas the digital one doesnt.
PS - Completely unrelated but…Some tosser cut me up at elephant and castle last night but as I wasnt on my bike I had to let him go - I’m seriously thinking about setting up a thread posting the reg number so if anyone sees them out and about they can remove his mirrors on behalf of all bikers! He couldnt see a frigging car so god knows what he’s like with bikes!!!
I had my suspension adjusted by B too as it was too hard for the road, you might find a trip to see him makes the bike feel much better, I guess some can be too soft as well as some too hard. Changed the way the bike felt completely and new Michelin 2CT’s made the same difference again.
