Now that I done a little more research what happened to my tire is not that uncommon, Dunlop tires on rare occassions will self destruct with very little wear on them by splitting open. I'll know more when I get the tire off and can look inside.

 

http://www.aa1car.com/library/tire_expire.htm&nbsp\\;Tire maybe many years old on shelf? Decode date if there.

 

Bike is an '07 but I'll check the date code on it OE Dunlop tire.

 

M23M 4406

 

What IS the shelf life of tires (generally). I hadn't thought of that. Bought a new pair (Screamin' Eagles) a YEAR ago and still haven't mounted them. Dunno how old they already were when I bought 'em...

 

I think 5 years is shelf life for motorcycle tires mine were made in april 'o6 so not that old.

 

I just checked the codes on mine and the rear 180 was mfr in early 04 and the matching front is from mid 05.

 

Is it SAFE to put these on (especially the rear) ???

 

I've kept them both stored in my apartment in a closet for the last year or so...

 

They outgas chemicals and dry out no matter where you store them. 5 years max for me.