Kick Your Minibike Tires - But Not Too Hard

When you ride your minibike, you seldom think about the minibike tires. Most of your attention is focused on the engine and the track or course - or having fun! But it's very important to take care of your minibike tires, and doing minibike tire inspections is the first way to ensure that you won't have to replace them very often.

Start with proper air pressure in the tires. For most minibikes, the proper air pressure is 25 psi, however, some will have a different recommended psi, which you can find printed in raised letters on the tire itself. Use the recommended psi for your tires. Check the air pressure before and after each ride, since air pressure can be lost over a period of time, as well as through use.

After each ride - especially hard ones through rough courses or terrain - check your tires for air leaks or foreign objects such as nails. Temperature changes also change air pressure. Get any leaks or punctures repaired as soon as possible, but avoid using inflation products, such as fix-a-flat. Instead, patch the puncture, or take it to a tire repair shop.

Never ride your minibike with low air pressure, or with too much air pressure. If you do, you are risking a flat or a blowout. Never ride your bike with a flat tire either, as this can cause damage to the wheel - not to mention the tire - and will cost you more money to repair in the end.

Finally, watch for wobbles. If your bike is wobbling, the minibike tires may not be aligned properly. Get them aligned true as soon as possible, and avoid riding the bike until the alignment is correct. Riding the minibike when the minibike tires are out of alignment can cause wear to the tread.