3-Step Pre-Ride Tire Check

Quick Tip: The 3-Step Pre-Ride Tire Check

A simple 60-second tire inspection before each ride can prevent most punctures and ensure optimal performance. Here is the technique used by professional mechanics.

Step 1: Visual Scan

Spin each wheel slowly while watching the tire surface. Look for embedded glass, thorns, or wire fragments. Remove anything stuck in the rubber before it works its way through.

Step 2: Pressure Test

Squeeze the tire firmly at three points around the circumference. Consistent firmness indicates proper inflation. Soft spots suggest slow leaks or insufficient pressure for your weight.

Step 3: Sidewall Check

Run your fingers along both sidewalls feeling for cuts, bulges, or cracking. These indicate structural damage that can cause blowouts. Replace immediately if found.

This quick routine takes less than a minute but catches 90% of issues before they become roadside problems.