I have a 2010 GS500F that I have had for almost 3 years now. It still has the original tire on the front, with about 28000km on it. I plan to sell the bike after this season for financial reasons (insurance on both car and bike is killer in Canada). But I just wanted to know if it will be safe to ride it for 2-3 more months or if I should play it safe and replace the tire. The tire still has a bit of tread left before it reaches the minimum, but the cracks are what concern me. The tire is about 7 years old now (based on sidewall date stamp).
(http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag93/JeffreyWenzel/IMG_20150808_195750_zpsu3ebgxok.jpg) (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/JeffreyWenzel/media/IMG_20150808_195750_zpsu3ebgxok.jpg.html)
(http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag93/JeffreyWenzel/IMG_20150808_195804_zpslhctyxdv.jpg) (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/JeffreyWenzel/media/IMG_20150808_195804_zpslhctyxdv.jpg.html)
Personally, I'd say replace it now for a couple reasons. First, you get to ride on a new tire which is always good. Second, leaving a ratty tire on a bike when selling it could actually give the buyer a reason to haggle the price down.
But remember: don't add the cost of maintenance to the selling price....
R & R.
Personally I would replace that tyre, it's very old and will be hard, safety sake replace, add the extral $100 or whatever it costs to replace onto the selling price when time comes but my trailer tyres were like that and i replaced them.
It will always be in the back of your mind unless you replace the tire.
Why do you need people like us to tell you what to do?
You are the one riding around on the thing and you have obviously got doubts.......... so change it :dunno_black:
... could last till tread wears out (or if unridden till it rots on the rim) ... could last till you hit a pothole or big bump.... could last till you go for a blast, heat it up and lean the bike right down in your favorite fast left hand sweeper turn.....
You a gambler? ;)
... best to change... peace of mind... silky smooth feel when riding... better grip/adhesion/pliability. .. looks good for when selling. .. :thumb:
Thanks for the replies everyone. Getting a new tire tomorrow!