I’m confused by how evenly spread the “wear” is on the sidewall of my rear tyre. Been on the bike for about 18 months. At first I thought it was just wear & tear but it’s soooo evenly spread on both sides, and then I noticed that the “specialized” lettering isn’t worn through but the tyre seems to be worn through around it?
This is my first “proper” MTB that I have gone from beginner to intermediate on so learning maintenance as I go!
Does it need replaced?
by CellistLow8857
8 Comments
I get this routinely on well used tires. You didn’t do anything wrong, it just happens with lower PSI’s and rough terrain.
Also, I’m not a mechanic so someone correct me if I’m wrong.
low pressure in hardpack or asphalt or eventually over time it happens anyhow, especially if you like torquing it up hills. People on singlespeeds see this often.
I get this with specialized tires. I also get dry cracking that leads to leaks too. Need to rip my back tire off because the sidewall dry cracked and leaks air. Tire is 2 seasons old and has less than 750 miles on it. Have to top it off every 10 miles or so. I am switching to Schwalbe cause of these issues. Have had it on 2-3 tires.
Those wear areas are where the tire flexes or wrinkles as it is compressed while riding. That constant back and forth flexing causes the rubber to degrade in those areas and the strings that make up the tire carcass start to show through. It’s normal wear and a good sign that you got to ride enough to cause this!
Personally I would keep riding it until the strings start to fray or, if applicable, the tubeless sealant is weeping out the sides
This is a result of under inflating the tires. The sidewall can sort of crumple and make this pattern. It’s not a big deal if there aren’t any other problems like leaking air or bulges. Consider adding some more air pressure and ride on.
I have these exact lines on my Vittoria Martello With Graphene 2.0. And I ride it hard. Lots of stones and sharp rocks. It’s just wear, completely cosmetic. Min has been like that for about 6months now. And it’s still going strong. That being said, keep an eye on it, if it starts leaking air you know what to do. But from my experience, you’re perfectly fine.
You need curb feelers.
This is normal, it happens mostly from cornering as the tire flexes with use.