I have several bikes, including my 2016 FLSTN that have very good tread life, but are at 5 or more years on the tires. What is the general consensus on replacing tires by age?

 

Look at the date stamp on the tires (you can find out how to read it online). Ten years is considered OK, maybe slow down a little in the rain on tires past 5-7 years. Dry grip is more than most people need.

 

So true! The friction coefficient of dry asphalt is around 7 (give or take) and wet asphalt is 6.6. (I used to be a collision investigator).

 

7 years is max life in my opinion.

 

Thanks - I have 3 2016 HD's that are getting close on age. a triumph has a tire made in '08 so that is going to need to be replaced I guess. Dang, this is going to be an expensive summer

 

Recommend replacement age is 5 years. Depending on heat cycles, exposure to the weather and sun you may get more life. Running on old slicker and harder tires puts your life and health are at risk. How lucky do you feel?

 

The recommendations below are maximums. Sooner replacement is obviously going to be better.

Michelin: "If the tires haven't been replaced 10 years after their date of manufacture, as a precaution, Michelin recommends replacing them with new tires. Even if they appear to be in usable condition and have not worn down to the tread wear indicator."

Bridgestone: "Bridgestone recommends that its Bridgestone or Firestone brand tires be removed from service after ten years regardless of their remaining tread depth."

 

ha...with my luck in consideration, I have parked my triumph with that ancient front tire until I can schedule a replacement. I am a little annoyed that the dealer sold it to me that way....just last fall, but I should have looked. A different dealer I used to buy used bikes from always put new tires on so it slipped my mind. My HD's have a little more wiggle room

 

Ride the bike more. A bike with five year old tires that still have great tire tread depth may be a candidate for garage queen status. Only kidding!

 

No you are not kidding, you are correct