legal tread depth for tyres?

Hi All

I tried to get some information on when to change your tire, i.e simple way to check tread depth without special tool and minimum tread depth, if anyone can help with the answers I would be greatful

Thanks
Daz
1982 xj650 rj

 

FIRST of all check the date codes, if theyre over 6 yrs old, replace them.

As for tread depth, i couldnt tell ya. on a car you can use a penny, but idk on a bike.

Are they squared off?

 

Use Google to look up the requirements in Belgium.

In the UK the minimum tread depth is 1mm and there are little bars moulded into the tread that wear flat before the rest of the tread to tell you.

If they're close to 1mm then you may as well change them. If you had 3-4mm of tread then you probably wouldn't be asking ???

New tyres may have anywhere between 6-10mm of tread when new (approximately, for most tyres - knobblies may be more), so if you're in that 1-2mm area it's definitely a good time to change. After all, you can get some pretty heavy rain in Belgium and on some of the roads drainage is not that good.

 

These are my guidelines for replacing bike tires:

1) Regardless of appearance, if over 6 years replace.
2) If they are squared of...replace.
3) If there are any signs of cracking or knots in the sidewall, replace.
4) There are small bear bands across the tread grooves. If the tire is worn down to where this band connects the groove, in my opinion replace.

Also this is the legal guidlines that I am aware of...

The grooves of the tread pattern must have a depth of a least 1 mm throughout a continuous band measuring at least three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and round the entire outer circumference of the tyre, OR
if the grooves of the original tread pattern of the tyre do not extend beyond three-quarters of the breadth of the tread (i.e. common with motorcycle tyres) any groove of the original pattern must have a minimum depth of at least 1 mm.

1mm is just a fuzz over 1/32" There is absolutely no way I will ride on tires worn down that far.

 

Once you're into the "wear bars" it's time to replace.

 

If I don't like the looks of the tire.... I break down and buy a new one!!
What value do you put on your life and good health?!
Don't play games with tires.

I am resisting riding my bike right now as my back tire is worn and I don't like the looks of it!
Don't take a chance!