2.16TIRES
GENERAL
Use only Harley-Davidson approved tires. See a Harley-
Davidson dealer. Using non-approved tires can adversely
affect stability, which could result in death or serious
injury. (00024a)
Be sure tires are properly inflated, balanced and have
adequate tread. Inspect your tires regularly and see a
Harley-Davidson dealer for replacements. Riding with
excessively worn, unbalanced or under-inflated tires can
adversely affect stability and handling, which could result
in death or serious injury. (00014a)
New tires should be stored on a horizontal tire rack. Avoid
stacking new tires in a vertical stack. The weight of the stack
compresses the tires and closes down the beads.
Tires should be inspected for punctures, cuts, breaks and wear
at least weekly.
See Figure 2-79.The tread wear indicator bars will appear on
tire tread surfaces when 1/32 in. (0.8 mm) or less of tread
remains. Always remove tires from service before they reach
the tread wear indicator bars.
New tires are needed if any of the following conditions exist.
See 1.8 TIRES AND WHEELS.
1. Tire wear indicator bars are visible on the tread surfaces.
2. Tire cords or fabric are visible through cracked sidewalls,
snags or deep cuts.
3. A bump, bulge or split in the tire.
4. Puncture, cut or other damage to the tire that cannot be
repaired.
1. Sidewall
2. Tread surface
Figure 2-79.Tread Wear Indicators
REMOVAL
NOTE
Care must be taken when removing and installing tire to prevent
cosmetic damage to wheel.This is especially true with wheels
that feature painted surfaces.
1. Remove wheel from motorcycle:
a. If removing front wheel, see 2.3 FRONT WHEEL,
Removal.
b. If removing rear wheel, see 2.4 REAR WHEEL,
Removal.
2. Deflate tire.
NOTE
On tube type wheels, it is not necessary to completely remove
tire from rim. Removing one side allows the tube to be replaced
and allows for inspection of tire.
3. Loosen both tire beads from rim flange. In most cases, a
bead breaker machine will be required to loosen the beads
from the rim.
4. Remove tire.
2-50 2008 Dyna Service: Chassis
To Next Page