Why tyres deserve a look first
Your tyres are the only part of the bike that touches the ground. Grip, braking, cornering and comfort all depend on their condition. Small problems, such as a cut or a slow leak, are easy to fix at home but can lead to a sudden flat or a loss of grip on the road. A proper tyre inspection takes about a minute and is one of the most useful parts of any pre-ride routine.
This is general information. Tyre and rim makers give specific guidance for their products, so follow it, and see a bike shop if you are unsure about wear or damage.
Look at the whole surface
Rotate each wheel slowly and look at the tread and sidewalls all the way round.
Cuts and slashes. Look for cuts in the tread or sidewall. A small surface nick may be harmless, but a cut deep enough that you can see fabric or cord underneath means the tyre is compromised. Replace it rather than hoping it will hold.
Bulges and lumps. A bulge in the sidewall or tread suggests that the casing has been damaged. This can lead to sudden failure. Do not ride on a tyre with a bulge.
Cracks and perishing. Older tyres, especially those that have spent time in sun or storage, can develop fine cracks across the sidewall. A few hairline marks can be a sign of age; deep or widespread cracking suggests the rubber has deteriorated.
Wear. Many tyres have a worn centre strip, flat spot or visible casing. Some have wear indicators; check the maker’s guidance. A tyre that is very worn offers less puncture protection and can be less grippy, especially in the wet. Our notes on tyre tread and grip explain how the pattern and rubber work together.
Check for embedded debris
Run your eyes over the tread for small items like glass, thorns, stones or wire. Embedded debris can work further in with each rotation and cause a puncture later. Remove items gently with a fingertip or a small tool, taking care not to push them in or cut yourself; wiping with a cloth rather than bare fingers can help. If something has gone deep or you are unsure, treat it as damage and consult a shop.
After removing debris, check the area for holes. A hissing sound or a damp feel can indicate a leak, which means the tube or tyre needs attention. Our guide to fixing a flat covers the next steps.
Check the pressure
Squeeze the tyre with your thumb and compare it with the other one. A soft tyre can feel squishy, and it increases the risk of pinch punctures, rim damage and poor handling. A tyre that is too hard can be harsh and less grippy.
Most tyres have a recommended pressure range printed on the sidewall. Use a pump with a gauge, and stay within that range. Suitable pressure within it depends on factors such as rider weight, tyre width, surface and the rim, so if you are unsure, ask a shop or look at the maker’s advice. Do not exceed the maximum on either the tyre or rim. If you carry a pump on rides, our topic on carrying a bike pump gives some thoughts on how to do so.
Tyres lose air slowly, even without a puncture. Checking before each ride, or at least weekly, is a good habit.
Check the valve and the rim
Make sure the valve is straight, the cap is on if it has one, and the stem is not leaning to one side. A tilted valve can suggest that the tyre or tube is shifting on the rim. Look at where the tyre meets the rim on both sides. The tyre should sit evenly, without a bulge or a line that dips in and out as the wheel turns.
Also check the rim sides for wear if you have rim brakes, and look for dents. Wheel truing and spoke checks are a separate job; see our topic on wheel truing.
Tyre type and conditions
Different tyres suit different riding. Wide knobbly tyres, slicks and puncture-resistant types all wear and behave differently. Whatever you use, the same inspection applies. In wet or slippery conditions, tyre condition matters even more; our overview of wet road traction describes why.
When to replace
Replace a tyre if you see deep cuts, a bulge, exposed casing, severe cracking or heavy wear. If you are unsure, take a photo and ask a shop. Replacing tyres in pairs is not always required, but both should be in good condition. If you ride on public roads, consider carrying a spare tube or repair kit and the means to inflate it.
Putting it together
Make the tyre check the first step in your pre-ride bike check. Look, squeeze, spin the wheel and glance at the rim. If something seems off, fix it before you leave. A few minutes at home is much easier than a roadside repair in the rain.