When should you replace your motorcycle tyres?
Replace your motorcycle tyres when the tread has worn down to the wear indicators (legal minimum in the Netherlands: 1 mm), when the rubber is old or cracked, or with a cut or bulge. The DOT code tells you how old your tyre is. Tyre fitting costs €50 per tyre with us, the tyre itself separately.
By Freddy · 20 October 2026
How much tread does a motorcycle tyre need?
In the Netherlands the legal minimum tread for a motorcycle tyre is 1 mm. That really is the minimum: with less tread your braking distance on wet roads gets longer. Many motorcycle tyres have wear indicators in the grooves. Once the tread has worn down to them, it is time for new tyres. Measure in several places, because motorcycle tyres often wear unevenly.
How old is your tyre according to the DOT code?
Even a tyre with enough tread can be too old: the rubber hardens and gives less grip. On the sidewall of your tyre is the DOT code. The last four digits give the production week and year. 2423, for example, means week 24 of 2023.
Besides age, look at the state of the rubber: small cracks in the sidewalls or between the tread are a sign the tyre needs replacing.
When is damage a reason to replace?
- A cut, bulge or sidewall damage.
- A nail or stone pushed into the tread.
- A tyre worn flat or squared off in the middle, so your motorcycle turns in less easily.
Not sure?
Send us a photo of your tyre and the DOT code on WhatsApp and we'll take a look. Having new tyres fitted costs €50 per tyre, incl. VAT (tyre not included). See motorcycle tyres in Waalwijk and how to read your tyre size.
Need help?
We work by appointment. Message us on WhatsApp to book. Include your registration number, make, model and mileage. Our workshop is in Waalwijk; labour costs €75 per hour, incl. VAT.