When should I change my tyres?

flappymcflappypants
flappymcflappypants Posts: 28
edited July 2010 in The workshop
Apologies if this sort of question has been done to death.

I ride a 2008 Dahon Jack (a full-size folder) which has Schwalbe Big Apple tyres (26 x 2.0") as standard. I've been commuting on this bike daily for 2 years (~5 miles each way), plus weekend riding. All in I'd guess I've done around 4000 miles in that time.

My question is this: when do I need to change my tyres? Is there a wear indicator I should be keeping an eye on? What is typical mileage for tyres ridden on roads?

Also, the Big Apples have been absolutely bomb-proof. I've had only 2 p******** in 2 years, both in the space of about 5 days caused by underinflation. If/when I need to replace them what should I get that is similarly bomb-proof but maybe rolls a bit faster and is a bit lighter?

Thanks in advance :)
Dahon Jack 2008 - FCN 10 - Never been scalped though...

Comments

  • supersonic
    supersonic Posts: 82,708
    If they look to be cracking on the walls, or the tread is obviously worn excessively, then think about changing.

    Any rips, exposed canvas etc are not good.
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  • flappymcflappypants
    flappymcflappypants Posts: 28
    Thanks for the reply :D

    They look fine as far as I can tell. The tread, although fairly minimal to begin with, is perhaps a little worn/used looking. No rips or canvas showing though.
    Dahon Jack 2008 - FCN 10 - Never been scalped though...
  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    Keep them going, you need very very little tread on a bike tyre to clear any surface water as the basic shape does it for you!

    Simon
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • flappymcflappypants
    flappymcflappypants Posts: 28
    So as long as I'm not getting a lot of pun*****s they'll be fine?

    What sort of mileage is typical for bike tyres (road use)?
    Dahon Jack 2008 - FCN 10 - Never been scalped though...
  • ex-pat scot
    ex-pat scot Posts: 939
    fine as long as canvas not showing and no obvious large splits.
    Commute: Langster -Singlecross - Brompton S2-LX

    Road: 95 Trek 5500 -Look 695 Aerolight eTap - Boardman TTe eTap

    Offroad: Pace RC200 - Dawes Kickback 2 tandem - Tricross - Boardman CXR9.8 - Ridley x-fire
  • wgwarburton
    wgwarburton Posts: 1,863
    flappymcflappypants wrote:
    So as long as I'm not getting a lot of pun*****s they'll be fine?

    What sort of mileage is typical for bike tyres (road use)?

    I find they consistently last as long as a piece of string.

    Cheers,
    W.

    (sorry...)
  • flappymcflappypants
    flappymcflappypants Posts: 28
    :D Hehe, that's a reasonable answer of sorts.

    I guess I'll just keep a beady eye on 'em.

    Thanks for all the responses guys, much appreciated. :D
    Dahon Jack 2008 - FCN 10 - Never been scalped though...

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