Technical Information

KENDA'S SUPER DAVE EXPLAINS
TIRE PRESSURE DO'S AND DON'TS
Watch as SuperDave explains the do's and don'ts of tire pressure to help riders get the maximum performance and tread life from their tires.

KENDA'S TIRE EXPERT SUPER DAVE
EXPLAINS RADIAL VS. BIAS TIRES
Let Kenda's tire experts help simplify the complicated subject and help you make the right tire selection for your riding needs.

Tire Selection

When selecting Kenda tires for your motorcycle be sure they meet the requirements of the motorcycle, your intended use, match up with your wheels/rims, have proper speed rating and load carrying capacity. Contact Kenda for more information.

Front/Rear tire matching

Tires designated as front wheel fitment should only be mounted in the front position. Likewise, tires designated for rear wheel fitment should only be mounted in the rear position. Mixing new and used front and rear tires, and visa versa, can cause instability and unpredictable handling. Likewise, mixing radials and non-radials can also cause the same issues. Kenda recommends that you do not mix either of these, as it is unsafe.

Tubes

When fitting a new tire on a wheel/rim requiring a tube, a new tube should be installed at the same time. Old tubes become stretched and if an old tube is fitted within a new tire, it can crease and fail due to thinning of the tube rubber. Kenda does not recommend repairing tubes. Make sure to check the size marking on the tube to be sure it matches your tire size. Do not fit Kenda tubes in radial motorcycle tires. Contact Kenda for more information.

Tire Pressures & Tire Inspection

Always check your tire pressure when the tires are cold and inspect for your tires wear and possible damage before each ride. It is by far the most important function of tire maintenance you can perform. If you add heavier loads or another passenger to your motorcycle, a higher tire pressure is required. However, never exceed maximum load indicated on tire sidewall or vehicle capacity load found in owner’s manual. Under inflated tires can result in tire failure. Contact Kenda and consult your owners manual for more information.

Speed Ratings

Speed ratings are recognized by the Industry Standards Organization (ISO). Always match the tire speed rating to your motorcycle requirement. Contact Kenda or consult your owners manual for more information. SEE SPEED RATINGS CHART BELOW.

Run-In period

New tires should not be subjected to maximum power or extreme cornering until the new tire has traveled at least 100 miles. This will allow the rider to get used to the feel of the tires and their performance characteristics. Remember a new tire has very different performance characteristics than a used tire of the same make/model.

Tire repair and modification

Kenda does not recommend repairing tires. Kenda also does not condone the use of liquid sealants as a tire repair device. Kenda does not recommend ANY type of tire modification. Instead, faulty tires should be replaced with comparable new tires.

Wheels & Tire Balance

It is crucial that tire and wheel assemblies be balanced properly before use. Unbalanced tire and wheel assemblies can potentially lead to tire failure. Bent or cracked wheels/rims should be replaced immediately. Contact your Kenda tire dealer to ensure proper tire to wheel installation and balancing.

Load Carrying capacities

Make sure your tires have a sufficient load carrying capacity for your vehicle and added weight. When calculating your load capacity, take into account the weight of the motorcycle, the weight of any additional luggage or gear, and whether you carry passengers. Proper tire inflation is necessary when making this calculation. Never exceed the vehicle load capacity noted on the VIN plate, in your motorcycle owner’s manual, or the maximum load noted on your tires sidewall.

Tire installation and Mounting

Kenda does not recommend installing your own tires or tubes. Contact your Kenda tire dealer to ensure proper installation & mounting.

Tread Depth

Make sure to replace tires before they reach their tread wear indicator bars (1/32” tread depth remaining). Excessive tread wear can result in tire failure.