A motorcycle balances on two contact patches about the size of your palm. Tires therefore have a huge influence on grip, stability, braking and comfort. Understanding the sidewall markings and choosing the right type is worth the effort. Reading the sidewall A typical rear tire marking looks like 180/55 ZR17 73W: Also look for the … Read more
Every car needs tires, brakes, wipers and a regular look-over. Beyond that, maintenance depends a lot on what powers the car. Knowing the differences helps you budget correctly and avoid paying for services your car does not need. Gasoline cars The familiar routine: oil and filter changes, air filters, spark plugs at long intervals (often … Read more
Tires are the only part of the car that touches the road. Braking, cornering, comfort, noise and fuel economy all depend on them, so it is worth choosing them carefully instead of buying whatever is cheapest. Read the sidewall A typical tire size looks like 225/45 R17 94V: Use the size, load index and speed … Read more
A flat tire usually announces itself: a thumping noise, the car pulling to one side, or a tire-pressure warning light. Reacting calmly is the most important part. Stop safely Do not brake hard. Hold the steering wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually. Turn on your hazard lights and pull over to … Read more
It depends on the kind of spare. A full-size spare can be used like a normal tire, while a temporary spare, often called a “donut”, is only meant to get you to a tire shop. Temporary “donut” spares Most temporary spares are designed for about 50 to 70 miles of driving and a maximum speed … Read more
