How to Balance Motorcycle Tires Accurately
Balanced tires are important to any vehicle, especially a motorcycle. Improperly balanced tires can become damaged quicker than normal, shortening their life as well as the life of other suspension components. They can also cause problems with driver comfort and ride quality. In a worst case scenario, improperly balanced tires can cause accidents.
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Instructions
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1
Place the motorcycle wheel onto the top part of the wheel balancer.
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2
Spin the tire, making sure nothing gets in the way of the tire spinning. Let it spin until it stops naturally.
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3
Use a paint pen or marker to note the highest point on the wheel.
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4
Tape a piece of weight to the wheel using duct tape, placing it exactly where the mark was made. The weight should be a couple of inches long. Wheel weights can be found at most automotive shops that also carry tires and rims.
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5
Turn the wheel, placing the mark 90 degrees from where it started.
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6
Release the tire. If the mark falls to the lowest point, remove the weight, cut it smaller and reapply. If the mark returns to the highest point, remove the weight and reapply a larger piece of lead.
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7
Repeat Steps 6 and 7 until the tire can be turned to any position without causing it to move.
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8
Apply the weight to the tire on the marked spot with the adhesive on the back of the weight. Place tape over the weight to protect it. The tire is now balanced. Repeat the steps with the other tire, replace them on the bike and enjoy your smooth ride.
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Tips & Warnings
Always make sure the tire is clean before adding weights. Debris can get between the adhesive and the tire, causing the weights to fall off.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit motorcycle image by Bionic Media from Fotolia.com
