Tire Pressure

[chrislarue]

Is there a "rule of thumb" when it comes to tire pressure (i.e. use max pressure, use 1 lb below max, use 2 lbs below max, etc).

I'm sure I will receive a bunch of responses saying, "Try different pressures for both front and rear, and stick with the combination you like best."

But what I'm looking for is a good starting point and maybe a thing or two I don't want to do when finding a front to rear pressure combination.

Thanks!!!

[Greg Cothern]

Chris each manufactuer has different spec's on tire pressures.  Metzelers for example I believe call for 40 in front and 42 in rear.
Dunlops are not that high, so I would say follow the manufacture suggested pressures.  I would not deviate too far from those #'s.
Too little pressure will result in increase in tire wear substantially, too much pressure and it will be very sensitive on handling.

[Wayne]

Don't confuse "max tire pressure" with "recomended tire pressure."

My car tires have a max pressure of 50.  The recomended is 32.  If I run at 50, it wears the middle out first.  On flat (car) tires, you can mark them with chalk and drive for a while to make certain you get good wear.  On motorcycle tires, I go with the sticker on the bike, or the manual.