Instructions and tips for motorcycle users

• M/C – tyres for motorcycles, for the rims of motorcycles with a diameter of the tyre bead seat different from the rims with the same designation but intended for passenger or commercial/delivery vehicles.
• MOPED – tyres constructed for motorcycles that achieve a speed of 50 km/h or less.
• MST- tyres for special-purpose motorcycles, a wider tyre tread than the comparable dimensions of the same designation.
• NHS – Not for Highway Service - tyres for off-road motorcycles, use on public road surfaces not allowed.
• M+S – tyres designed for use in mud and snow (winter tyres).
• PR – designates various tyre versions (load index/inflation pressure) of the same dimension designation.
• REINF – motorcycle tyres for load and inflation pressures that exceed standard values.
• TUBELESS – tyres specially designed for tubeless mounting on suitable rims
• TUBE TYPE – tyres specially designed for mounting with a tube.
• TT/TL – Tube Type/Tubeless – tyres for use with a tube / without a tube.
• LI/SS – Load index, Speed Symbol.
• TRA. – The Tyre and Rim Association.
• TWI – Tyre Wear Indicator
• ETRTO – European Tyre and Rim Technical Organization.
• DOT – Department of Transportation, USA.
• NHTSA – National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (an agency of the Executive Branch of the US government).

TYRE ASSEMBLY
Advances in motorcycle technology over the last few decades has led to the development of a wide range of motorcycle tyres that all are made from the same basic parts:

• Tyre tread is the upper part of the tyre that contacts with the road surface. The combination of tyre tread pattern and rubber compound ensures sufficient grip on-road or off-road as well as water dispersion from tread grooves. Road grip depends on the rubber compound. As a rule, a tyre made from a softer compound has more grip but a shorter service life, whereas a tyre made from a harder one has less grip but a longer service life.
• Sidewall connects the tread area to the rim area and is also where data is engraved with: size, speed symbol, load index, pattern name, manufacturer name, country of origin, ECE homologation number and others.  During use the sidewall transmits lateral forces, dampens oscillations and prevents tyre deformations.
• Carcass plies are the supporting structure of the tyre that help retain its shape irrespective of the forces generated during the ride. They consist of two or more cord layers of rayon, nylon, polyester, kevlar, steel and other relevant materials.
• Tyre bead which consists of a wire bead and layers of rubberized cord that holds the tyre onto the rim and prevents it from moving. The bead provides rigidity to the tyre and controls acceleration and braking forces while transmitting them to the suspension. On tubeless tyres, the tyre bead also prevents loss of air pressure.

TYPES OF TYRE CONSTRUCTION
There are three types of tyre carcass construction:

• Diagonal tyres otherwise called Bias and are the most common in use. The carcass plies of a diagonal tyre combine two or more textile cord layers that overlayed at determined angles. These tyres are commonly used on motorcycles with a lower cubic capacity, scooters, and classic.
• Diagonal-belted tyres are similar to Diagonal tyres with a reinforced diagonal belt under the tread surface. These tyres are marked with the B letter in the size description: e.g. 130/90B15. Best suited to heavy high cubic capacity motorcycles and poor road conditions.
• Radial tyres have carcass plies with a cord layer layed at steep angles towards the riding direction with reinforcement belts placed across the carcass plies in order to stabilize the tread surface. Steel cord-reinforced radial tyres come with an additional steel cord under the tread surface. Radial tyres are particularly suited for high speed motorcycles that generate strong acceleration, deceleration and cornering.

SPEED / LOAD INDEX
The speed index indicates the highest permissible tyre speed under the marked Load index (see below), while the load index indicates the maximum permissible tyre load applicable.  Permissible speed/load indices for each tyre are listed in the catalogues and in www.mitas-moto.com. These speed and load indications apply to tyres in good condition, properly inflated and mounted on suitable rims.  When replacing worn-out tyres, make sure the speed and load indices of the new tyres correspond to the values specified by the motorcycle manufacturer.

TYPES OF TUBES
Mitas normal and heavy-duty tubes for motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds are made from a high-quality butyl compound, while the ultra heavy-duty tubes are made from natural rubber. Mitas tubes are from 1.2 to 2.0 mm thick, whereas the ultra heavy-duty tubes are up to 4 mm thick. The  TR4, TR6, or JS87 valve stems are fully threaded and have a ring-shaped base. Metal valve cap with a rubber seal prevents dust from getting into the valve. All our tubes are packed in boxes.

• It is extremely important to maintain the specified tyre pressure. An appropriately inflated tyre will have the correct shape, last longer, have better overall stability, riding comfort and road grip.
• Inflate the tyre to the value recommended by the motorcycle manufacturer in the user manual.
• An underinflated tyre can be very hazardous as this generates heat at high constant speeds that can cause abrupt tyre failure.  Underinflation can also lead to higher tear wear and tyre cracking along the sidewall.
• An overinflated tyre will cause higher wear along the central tread section of the tyre tread, can lead tread cracking.  The tyre will also be more uncomfortable, the lower contact area will also reduce the tyre grip.
• In the case of a sudden pressure drop, remove the tyre from the rim and check it completely for damages.
• Maintain the air pressure by measuring cold pressures (when tyres are still cold before use).
• if riding at high speeds, increase the pressure by 0.2 bar (2,9 psi)
• if riding with high loads (passenger and luggage), increase rear tyre pressure by 0.2 bar (2,9 psi).
• if tyre is hot, inflate the tyre 0,3 bar (4,35 psi) higher than the specified cold pressure and adjust again when the tyre is cold to the correct pressure.
• Using a calibrated pressure gauge, check tyre pressure at least once per week when the tyre is cold and always before a longer trip.
• Be aware that the pressure increases when the tyre is hot and decreases when cold. The pressure can also drop if a valve insert does not fit well or is worn out.
• Check the valve insert, tighten it or replace it if required.
• Always fix the valve cap tightly to prevent dust from entering.
• We recommend replacing the valve when replacing a tubeless tyre.
• We recommend replacing the tube when replacing a tube-type tyre. Tubes stretch during use and debris inside the tyre can also cause damage. Prolonged use increases the chance of tube failure and abrupt pressure loss which can lead to a loss in vehicle stability. We recommend using Mitas tubes with Mitas tyres.

All tyres treads are designed to include a TWI (Tyre Wear Indicator) along the tread area.  These usually become more visible as the tyre tread wears and are warn the rider once the tread is worn that the time has come to replace the tyre.

Below a list of different factors that can cause abnormal tyre wear and tear:

• Underinfaltion or overinflation can cause excessive or unequal wear.
• Riding at high speeds, with aggressive acceleration and deceleration.
• Higher road surface temperatures.
• Rough and/or abrasive road surface conditions.
• Mechanical irregularities such as deformed wheels, incorrect brake adjustment, poor-quality shock absorbers, a too large gap between the wheel bearings, etc.
• Unbalanced rotation mass of the tyre with the rim valve.
• Inaccurately aligned rear wheel after transmission chain replacement or adjustment.

Always ensure sufficient space between the individual motorcycle parts (mudguards, forks, transmission chain) and the tyre mounted on the rim.  At high speeds the tyre will change shape due to centrifugal force.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MOUNTING A TUBELESS TYRE

Mounting procedure:

• When replacing a tyre, it is recommended to replace the valve as well.
• Make sure that the tyre and the rims are clean and in good condition.
• Apply a special emulsion to the rim edge and the tyre bead.  This will make fitting easier and protect the tyre from bead damage.
• Pay attention to the ROTATION marking on the sidewall of the tyre to ensure pattern is working in the designed direction of service.
• High speed tyres will normally have a yellow dot on the sidewall which indicates the lightest point on the tyre cirecumference.  The valve should be aligned with this dot once the tyre is mounted on the rim in order to make balancing the tyre and rim with weights easier.
• Ideally using tyre mounting equipment, fit the tyre unto the rim. Please follow instructions for the tyre mounting equipment from the manufacturer.
• Inflate the tyre upto a pressure of at least 3.5 bar (51 psi) ensuring the tyre bead seats firmly onto the rim.  It is recommended to inflate to such a pressure without the valve insert.
• Adjust the tyre pressure to the value preferably specified by the motorcycle manufacturer.
• The wheel is ready for use.

Dismounting procedure:

• Ideally using tyre mounting equipment, remove the tyre from the rim. Please follow instructions for the tyre mounting equipment from the manufacturer.
• If the tyre has reached the TWI, replace the tyre.  Please dispose of the tyre correctly.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MOUNTING A TUBE-TYPE TYRE 

Mounting procedure: 

• When replacing a tyre, it is recommended to replace the tube as well.
• Make sure that the tyre, rims and flaps are clean and in good condition.
• Apply a special emulsion to the rim edge and the tyre bead.  This will make fitting easier and protect the tyre from bead damage.
• Slightly inflate the tube to make it easier to fit and place it in the inside cavity of the tyre.  Sometimes it can also be placed inside the tyre cavity once only one bead is fitted to the rim.
• Pay attention to the ROTATION marking on the sidewall of the tyre to ensure pattern is working in the designed direction of service.
• High speed tyres will normally have a yellow dot on the sidewall which indicates the lightest point on the tyre cirecumference.  The valve should be aligned with this dot once the tyre is mounted on the rim in order to make balancing the tyre and rim with weights easier.
• Ideally using tyre mounting equipment, fit the tyre unto the rim. Please follow instructions for the tyre mounting equipment from the manufacturer.
• Inflate the tyre upto a pressure of at least 3.5 bar (51 psi) ensuring the tyre bead seats firmly onto the rim.  It is recommended to inflate to such a pressure without the valve insert.
• Adjust the tyre pressure to the value preferably specified by the motorcycle manufacturer.
• The wheel is ready for use.

Dismounting procedure:

• Remove the valve insert and deflate the tube completely.  Ideally using tyre mounting equipment, remove the tyre from the rim. Please follow instructions for the tyre mounting equipment from the manufacturer.
• If the tyre has reached the TWI, replace the tyre.  Please dispose of the tyre correctly.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MOUNTING A MOUSSE WITH A TYRE

Mounting procedure:

• Make sure that rims are clean and in good condition.
• Remove the mousse from the packaging, make sure to check you have the correct sizes for the tyres.
• Apply the lubricant supplied with the mousse or Mitas Lube thoroughly to the surface of the mousse. This will make fitting easier and will protect the condition of the mousse.
• A rim-lock is recommended when using a mousse to avoid the tyre spinning on the rim.  Please follow instruction for rim-lock assembly from the rim-lock manufacturer.
• Stuff the mousse into the inside of the tyre (as you would do with a tube) making sure that the entire mousse fits into the tyre cavity.
• Pay attention to the ROTATION marking on the sidewall of the tyre to ensure pattern is working in the designed direction of service.
• Ideally using tyre mounting equipment, fit the tyre unto the rim. Please follow instructions for the tyre mounting equipment from the manufacturer.
• Lock the rim-lock(s)
• The wheel is ready for use.

Dismounting procedure:

• Remember to unblock any rim-lock(s).  Please follow instruction for rim-lock disassembly from the rim-lock manufacturer.
• Ideally using tyre mounting equipment, remove the tyre from the rim. Please follow instructions for the tyre mounting equipment from the manufacturer.
• Remove the mousse from inside the tyre.
• Once the mousse has broken down and is no longer providing the requested support or it has expired, please dispose of correctly.

TYRES

• Tyres are the only part of a motorcycle in contact with the road surface. Safety at accelerating, braking, steering, and cornering thus depends on a relatively small surface between the tyre and the road. Proper tyre maintenance during their entire service life is thus of extreme importance.
• Maintain tyre pressure specified for a particular vehicle. Regularly check tyre wear and tear. Regularly, at least once a week, check tyre pressure. Regularly check the condition of the tyre (damages on the outer surface), preferably before each use. Improper tyre pressure or improper condition of the vehicle can shorten and/or negatively affect the service life of the tyre.
• Monitor tyre tread wear regularly to ensure best performance. Worn-out tyres are more prone to damage and do not ensure adequate grip, particularly on wet roads. Riding worn-out or damaged tyres can be very dangerous.
• Only trained authorized personnel should replace the tyres to ensure the tyre is correctly mounted and balanced on the rim.
• The service load of the vehicle must be distributed so as not to overload any individual tyre. The loading capacity of the tyre is determined by tyre inflation and the maximum speed of the vehicle.
• The surface of a new tyre is very smooth, which is why we recommend riding carefully for the initial 100 km to run in the tyre.
• Ride carefully. Excessive acceleration, braking and cornering significantly reduce the service life of the tyre and increases chances of an accident.
• MITAS motorcycles tyres are designed for motorcycles only. Mounting these tyres on any other vehicle could be hazardous.
• We recommend to always comply with the nominal dimensions indicated by the motorcycle manufacturer.  Not doing so could compromise handling and performance. The rider is responsible for the proper use of tyres and compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Always read and follow the instructions issued by the motorcycle manufacturer.
• Tubeless tyres require corresponding tubeless rims, however they can be assembled on a type-type rim provided a tube is used.  More recent tyres have been homologated as TL/TT, meaning the tyre is both a tubeless and tube-type tyre. This is quite common on Adventure / Dual Sport / Trail bikes.
• Technical parameters in the Mitas catalogs are based on international standards and recommendations (ETRTO, TRA).
• Suitable flaps must be used with spoked wheels. Regularly check the flaps to prevent a protruding spoke head puncture the tube.
• Do not use a damaged tubeless tyre with a tube.
• Immediately remove rocks and nails from the tyre tread to avoid punctures to carcass plies, a tyre failure or an accident. The main advantage of tubeless tyres is that they do not deflate abruptly even if punctured by a nail; however, if a rider is not aware of a tyre failure and carries on with the ride, the extent of damage can increase and turn into a hazardous one.
• We strongly advise against repairing the tyre shoulder and sidewall area.
• We strongly advise against repairing the P speed or higher category tyres.
• We strongly advise against repairing any radial tyres (on any section).
• The tyre can behave differently if in contact with oil or fat, therefore clean the throughly with a cloth soaked in gasoline (benzene).
• After purchasing a tyre, the buyer assumes responsibility for its proper storage and disposal.

RIMS

• Use only specified, suitable, clean, and undamaged rims. Before mounting a rim, check it for damages and clean any oils or dirt (such as but not limited to rust). It is recommended to coat sheet metal rims with a protective paint.
• Rim diameter, width, load values and other relevant technical data are defined in the Mitas catalogs. Specific data is available as part of vehicle documentation. Use vehicles in conformity with the manufacturer’s instructions. Use motorcycles only with the rims specified by the motorcycle manufacturer. Using a suitable rim is essential for a stable ride and other riding characteristics. A too narrow or a too wide rim can influence the shape of the tyre tread and deteriorate riding characteristics in general.

• Make sure that stored tyres are not pinched, squeezed or stretched in storage to prevent any permanent tyre deformations.
• Short-term storage (up to 4 weeks): stack the tyres horizontally up to a height of 1.5 m, but only if they have carrying cardboard inserted.
• Longer storage periods: place the tyres vertically and turn them slightly once a month.
• Recommended storage temperature: below 25°C, below 15°C even better.
• If temperatures are higher, tyre deformations are more likely. Prevent direct contact with heat sources such as heaters and hot pipes.  Very low temperatures can negatively affect the tyres.
• Before using, warm the tyres up to 25°C.
• Store the tyres in ozone-free spaces (away from electrical motors and other equipment producing sparks and discharges that cause or increase ozone concentration in storage space) and in the spaces that are free from chemical substances such as fuels, greases, chemicals, acid, or disinfectants.
• Store the tyres away from sharp objects, which could damage their surface (pointy metal parts, wooden parts, or other sharp objects).
• Mousse shelf life, please refer to production date on the mousse box:
• Standard & Rally mousse – 12 months from production date
• Soft & Extreme mousse – 8 months from production date

General storage conditions apply to colored tyres (white walled) as well; however, it should be taken into account that a colored sidewall is extremely sensitive to dirt and direct sunlight, which is why we recommend wrapping up colored tyres in protective foil and storing them in a dark space.