Still Riding on These Tyres? It May Be Time to Stop and Check.
Know the difference between moving on and slowing down.
The road will always test your resolve. Tyres endure pressure, friction and uncertainty so your journey stays steady.
Tyres are engineered to support your drive, but even the strongest must be replaced at the right time. Knowing when to change your tyres is how you protect your momentum and ensure every turn ahead remains assured.
Look out for these 10 signs to consider a tyre change:
1. Tread Worn to TWI or Below 0.8 mm
When tread reaches the Tread Wear Indicator (TWI) or falls below 0.8 mm, grip and braking efficiency are significantly reduced, especially on wet roads. At this stage, replacement is essential.
2. Ageing Cracks or Weathering
Visible cracks on the sidewall or tread indicate rubber ageing caused by heat, sunlight or time. Even with sufficient tread, aged tyres lose flexibility and reliability.
3. Uneven Wear Greater Than 1 mm
Uneven wear exceeding 1 mm across the tyre surface often points to alignment, inflation or suspension issues. This imbalance compromises stability and should not be ignored.
4. Spotty or Patchy Wear Greater Than 1 mm
Localised or spotty wear beyond 1 mm indicates irregular contact with the road, often caused by imbalance or braking stress. Such wear reduces predictable handling.
5. Exposed Ply
If the internal ply becomes visible, the tyre’s structural integrity is compromised. Continued use poses a serious safety risk and demands immediate replacement.
6. Unserviceable Cuts or Damage on the Tread
Cuts or damage on the tread that cannot be safely repaired weaken the tyre’s load-bearing ability. Replacement ensures continued confidence on the road.
7. Damage from Running Flat or Under-Inflation
Operating a tyre while flat or severely under-inflated causes internal damage that may not be visible externally. These tyres should always be replaced.
8. Ruptures, Creases, Deformation or Separation
Any visible ruptures, creases, bulges or separations in the sidewall or tread signal internal failure. Such tyres can no longer be trusted to perform safely.
9. Through Cuts or Damage on the Sidewall
Sidewall damage is critical. Through cuts weaken the tyre structure and cannot be safely repaired, making replacement mandatory.
10. Bead Damage Due to Improper Mounting or Rim Rust
Damage at the bead area caused by incorrect mounting, demounting or rim corrosion affects air retention and seating. This compromises safety and requires tyre replacement.
Knowing When to Move On
Tyres don’t fail without warning, they communicate through wear, texture and shape. Paying attention to these signals allows you to act before control is compromised.
Because moving forward isn’t just about going, it’s about knowing when to change.
BKT Tyres
Elevate Your Drive