What is the realistic lifespan of a scooter tire?

[JD]

My two TGB Laser R5 scooters have got over 6,000 miles each, and they're still running on the original 120/70-12 tires. The tires have never needed any service, other than maintaining proper pressures. Sometimes it seems that they don't have the grip they once had, but I don't know if its actual or imagined.

How many miles is it reasonable to expect on these puppies? I'm reluctant to shell out for four new tires until I need them, but I don't want to be foolhardy and run on dangerous rubber.

jd

[maddog]

Most of weight is on the rear tire so it would be a 4 to 1 ratio meaning your front tire should get 24,000 mi.

[John]

Thats about right. Motorcycle Superstore probably has your best price. You are probably down or past the wear indicators. One of those tires I sent your way JD is a scooter one for my Burgman, check the tread depth against what you have to give you an idea. Usually I change my rear tires around the 10000 mile mark. I also inflate to the upper limits of the tire manufacturers recommendation not the bike one.

[JD]

Usually I change my rear tires around the 10000 mile mark.

Do you really mean "miles," or those silly ferner kilometer thingies? If it's km, then I'm there now.

[the duck]

I get about 4-5,000 miles from the rear, have been usng Avon Viper Strykes but changed to Michelin Pilot's at the end of last year.

[John]

MILES ..... I also can think in metric too. lol

[oilyhans]

they seem to last for 10-20 years when parked in the garage..
so far my tires look ok after 10,000km .

oilyhans

[tomos03]

JD, if your tires have good tread depth and are not dry rotted run them. On the Big Ruckus form one person said he ran 15,000 miles on the original tires. The Ruckus also runs 12 inch tires.

[mopedlar]

Experts say to replace tires every 4 years regardless of tread depth because the rubber deteriorates/hardens. Personally, if they're not dryrotted and have good tread, I run them regardless of age. I have two Honda CH80's ('93 and '94) with their original tires.

I've put almpst 4K miles on my 1986 CH80 since replacing the tires, and there is still plenty of tread left.

[oilyhans]

seriously, if you rent scooters as i do ,you are
required to replace the tires every 3 years by the insurance company.

i have bought old scooters that haven't been started or ridden
on the road for 10 or more years,
that have tires that i have just pumped up and they are good to go.

i think the rubber is made to wear out and rot sooner now days ,
just like everything else.

oilyhans