Tyre pressure: check it cold, once a week

A tyre loses air quietly, and autumn temperature swings make it more noticeable. Pressure affects grip, wear and how stable the bike feels in corners.

• Find the recommended figures in the owner's manual or on the sticker on the frame or swingarm, separately for front and rear, and with a passenger if you carry one.
• Measure on cold tyres: before a ride or after the bike has stood for at least a couple of hours. Riding heats the tyres and the gauge will read high.
• Use one reliable gauge. Different gauges can disagree, so always compare readings from the same one.
• Never bleed air from a hot tyre to reach the target: once cold, it will be underinflated.
• Screw the valve caps back on; they keep dirt and moisture out of the valve core.
• If pressure drops by more than a few percent a week, inspect the tyre for punctures and check the valve core. If you suspect tyre or rim damage, go to a tyre shop.