Have you ever heard of a chicken strip motorcycle? No, it’s not a motorcycle made out of chicken strips (although that would certainly be an interesting sight).
Rather, a chicken strip is a term used to describe a narrow strip of rubber left on a motorcycle tire after the rest of the tread has worn away.
These strips are typically found on the edges of the tire and are caused by a combination of factors such as overloading the bike, improper tire pressure, and aggressive riding.
While some riders may consider chicken strips to be a sign of a skilled rider, as they indicate the ability to corner at high speeds, they can also be a safety hazard. When the tread on a tire is worn down, it can lead to decreased traction and handling, which can be dangerous in wet or slippery conditions.
So if you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, read on to find out more on what you should do when chicken strips start to show on your tire thread.
What Are Chicken Strips on Motorcycle Tires?
Chicken strips refer to the portion of the tire on a motorcycle that remains unworn, or “unstripped,” during normal riding. This area is typically located on the outer edges of the tire and is characterized by a smooth, uncracked appearance.
Some motorcycle enthusiasts may refer to the presence of chicken strips as a sign that a rider is not fully utilizing the capabilities of their motorcycle or tires. On the other hand, others may argue that having chicken strips is a sign of safe and responsible riding, as it indicates that the rider is not pushing their motorcycle to the limits of its traction.
It is important to note that the presence of chicken strips does not necessarily mean that a rider is inexperienced or unsafe. Different riding styles and conditions can affect the amount of tire wear on a motorcycle, and chicken strips may simply be a result of these factors.
Be sure to keep an eye on your tire tread and replace them before the chicken strips start to show. Trust us, it’s worth the investment for the safety and performance of your ride.
How do you get chicken strips off motorcycle tires?
To “strip” the chicken strips off of a motorcycle tire, a rider would need to ride their motorcycle in a way that uses more of the tire surface. This could involve taking corners more aggressively, leaning the motorcycle further into turns, or simply riding at higher speeds.
It is important to note that attempting to strip chicken strips off of a motorcycle tire can be dangerous and should only be done by experienced riders who are confident in their abilities. It is also important to ensure that the motorcycle and tires are in good condition and suitable for the type of riding being done.
Riding at the very edge of your tire’s grip can be thrilling if done well. However, just remember that the friend laughing at your tires isn’t the one that goes to the hospital if you lose grip and crash.
Pushing a motorcycle or its tires beyond its limits can lead to accidents and serious injuries. Safe riding practices, such as maintaining proper speed and following traffic laws, should always be a top priority.
Beyond his work as a mechanic, Mark is also the proud owner and author of SouthSeasCycles, a blog site dedicated to all things motorcycle. With this platform, Mark has been able to share his knowledge and expertise with fellow motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.
- 5 Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Helmets - September 12, 2023
- Are Honda Dirt Bikes Reliable & Good? (Helpful Tips!) - June 5, 2023
- Yamaha TTR230 Vs Kawasaki KLX230 (Which Is Better!) - May 29, 2023