Running your vehicle with the right tyre pressure is crucial for both safety and performance. Whether it’s a car, an HGV, or something more compact like a motorcycle, tyre pressure affects the way the vehicle responds to lumps and bumps on the road, as well as its responsiveness when braking, accelerating and turning.
Most drivers with regular passenger cars will know that the optimal PSI for their vehicle’s tyres depends on the passenger load and weight of the vehicle, and that this information can be found on the inside driver’s door. But what about motorcycle tyres?
In this article, we cover everything you need to know about motorcycle tyre pressure, from the meaning of PSI to identifying the right PSI pressure and recognising the differences that come from inflating the tyre to different pressures.
What Does PSI Mean?
PSI stands for ‘Pounds per Square Inch’ and is the common unit of measurement that's used to measure pressure in tyres, medical devices, sports equipment, and other tools.
In a motorcycle tyre, the most common PSI measurements sit between 28 and 42 PSI – depending on the size and weight of the motorcycle and the kind of terrain and conditions it’s being driven in.
How is PSI Determined for Motorcycle Tyres?
The most important thing that motorcycle riders and owners need to know is that the recommended PSI rating varies between the front and back wheel.
The front tyre usually runs with a lower PSI (between 28 and 34) while the rear tyre has a slightly higher rating (between 34 and 42) to accommodate the passenger load and maintain balance across the entire vehicle.
Another thing to note is that a motorcycle for urban use will require a higher PSI rating, which means that the tyres have more air in them. Motorcycles used on off-road terrain, including dirt bikes and off-road adventure bikes, operate at a lower PSI to optimise traction and grip when manoeuvring.
Where is the PSI Information for a Motorcycle Tyre Found?
The motorcycle you are riding will have its own recommendations for the optimal PSI. This information can be found in the motorcycle manual, as well as printed on a sticker somewhere on the bike frame for ease of access.
