What happens to traction as tires wear?
I took my Yamaha fjr
1300 out for a spin yesterday. I haven't been on it much because
it needs tires.....soon. I figure I have 500 miles before the
only riding I can safely do will be in a straight
line.
Anyway, while riding I noticed the bike didn't have much
cornering traction and I could not lean it hot and heavy through
the curves without it "drifting." In some curves I could feel the
back tire slide out a bit. Even when making quick lane changes, I
felt like I was riding on bubble gum or some other gooey
substance. I knew immediately it was the tires. I decided to ride
less aggressively and finish up the ride at a moderate
pace.
So what happens when motorcycle tires need to be replaced?
Well...cornering traction suffers...a lot! If you are used to
leaning your bike hard and fast through curves, doing it on worn
tires may land you in a ditch on the side of the road. Also
you may notice the bike drifting around when changing lanes. And
finally, your stopping distance is
impacted.
Will I try to get the final 500 miles in? Probably. But I know
that I can not ride the bike like I normally do until I replace
the tires.

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