Not normal. Maybe they were already old when you bought them?
Anyway, it’s not really a safety hazard as long as the underlying threads (carcass) is intact. The rubber tread itself is only needed for grip and to protect the carcass. If the cracks get too big it can expose the carcass to UV light and debris which can cause it to fail. Right now I’d just keep an eye on it.
The rubber is probably harder and less supple which can reduce grip slightly (and maybe increase rolling resistance).
Make sure you don’t ride at too low of a pressure.
nickskater09 on
Depends, how often do you like visiting your dentist?
I would replace it. Cracks are indicative of failure, and there’s no way to know exactly when the tire will fail. If there tire was new and is only 5 months old, I would contact Schwalbe or your place of purchase for a warranty replacement.
SillyCubensis on
No. Probably been sitting on a retailers shelf since 2005. Bin them and get some new ones… From a reputable retailer.
3 Comments
Not normal. Maybe they were already old when you bought them?
Anyway, it’s not really a safety hazard as long as the underlying threads (carcass) is intact. The rubber tread itself is only needed for grip and to protect the carcass. If the cracks get too big it can expose the carcass to UV light and debris which can cause it to fail. Right now I’d just keep an eye on it.
The rubber is probably harder and less supple which can reduce grip slightly (and maybe increase rolling resistance).
Make sure you don’t ride at too low of a pressure.
Depends, how often do you like visiting your dentist?
I would replace it. Cracks are indicative of failure, and there’s no way to know exactly when the tire will fail. If there tire was new and is only 5 months old, I would contact Schwalbe or your place of purchase for a warranty replacement.
No. Probably been sitting on a retailers shelf since 2005. Bin them and get some new ones… From a reputable retailer.