Have you ever noticed uneven wear on your motorcycle tyres? This isn’t your eyes playing tricks on you, it's actually what we call Tyre Cupping!
Keep reading as we explain exactly what tyre cupping is, how it occurs and ways you can prevent it…
What Is Tyre Cupping?
Tyre wear is completely normal, due to the constant friction with the road. Tyre cupping however is when the wear on the tyre is uneven, forming lump-like patterns on the tread.
Spotting Cupped Tyres
Thankfully tyre cupping can be spotted relatively easily. For your safety and others on the road, routinely check the condition of your tyres, inspecting the wear and PSI.
The most efficient technique to identify tyre cupping is by simply running your hands over the tyre, feeling for any lumps and bumps. See the photos below to get a better understanding.
For more severe cases of cupping, you can generally see the unevenness of the tread just by looking at the tyre with a keen eye.
How Does Tyre Cupping Occur?
Motorcycle tyre cupping occurs when the tread undergoes excessive “bouncing” on the road. When we say “bouncing”, it’s more like uneven contact with the road, resulting in disjointed friction wear on the tyre.
There are several factors that can contribute to tyre cupping, which include riding style, tyre maintenance and tyre quality. Below is a list of potential causes…
- Cornering Too Fast
- Braking While In A Corner
- Braking Too Hard
- Under & Over Inflated Tyres
- Excessive Weight On The Bike
- Worn-Out Suspension
- Low-Quality Tyres
Ways To Prevent Tyre Cupping?
In all honesty, there’s really no foolproof way to completely avoid tyre cupping. However, there are a few ways to help prevent it.
- Choosing a quality set of tyres with a harder rubber compound makes the tread stay more rigid
- Take it easier around corners
- Avoid braking in a corner
- Reduce excessive braking
- Routine maintenance check on tyre pressures
Your tyres are incredibly important, so failure to maintain their condition will compromise the performance and safety on the road. It is highly recommended to replace your tyres if cupping does occur. After all, it’s a small price to pay for reassured safety, handling and performance on the motorcycle.
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