Motorcycle Tire Pressure: General Standards for Various Sizes

What is the correct motorcycle tire pressure? This question may sound simple, but the answer plays a very important role in determining the quality of your riding experience.

Motorcycle tire pressure is the air pressure inside the tire that keeps it stable, able to support the weight of the vehicle, and provide optimal grip as the motorcycle travels on various road surfaces. The right pressure helps maintain riding comfort, reduces vibration, improves stability when cornering, and even makes fuel consumption more efficient.

On the other hand, tire pressure that is too low or too high can cause the tire to wear out quickly, waste fuel, and even increase the risk of accidents because the tire grip becomes less effective. That is why understanding the standard motorcycle tire pressure for each type of motorcycle, whether automatic (matic), underbone, or sport, is very important. If you want to know the recommended motorcycle tire pressure, read the following explanation.

What Is Motorcycle Tire Pressure?

Motorcycle tire pressure is the amount of air pressure inside the tire that maintains the tire’s shape, strength, and performance when used on the road. This pressure is measured in psi (pound per square inch) or kPa (kilopascals), and each type of motorcycle has different standards according to manufacturer recommendations.

Tire pressure plays a major role in determining tire performance. If the pressure is too low, the tire becomes softer, more prone to deformation, and increases friction with the road surface. As a result, the motorcycle feels heavier, consumes more fuel, and the tire wears out faster. Conversely, pressure that is too high makes the tire harder, reduces the contact area with the road, and makes the motorcycle feel unstable at higher speeds.

Proper tire pressure also helps maintain traction or the tire’s grip on the road surface. Optimal traction makes riding safer when cornering, braking, or passing through wet roads. In other words, tire pressure directly contributes to maintaining stability and safety while riding.

Motorcycle Tire Pressure for Various Motorcycle Types

a. Automatic (Matic) Motorcycles

Sumber: otomotif.kompas.com

For automatic motorcycles, tire pressure is usually slightly higher because the engine and components carry more weight at the rear. General standards include:

• Front tire: 29 psi (solo and with passenger)
• Rear tire: 33 psi (solo), 36 psi (with passenger)

b. Underbone Motorcycles

Sumber: astraotoshop.com

Underbone motorcycles are lightweight and commonly used for daily activities. Their tire pressure standard is usually lower because they do not carry as much load.

• Front tire: 29 psi (solo), 30 psi (with passenger)
• Rear tire: 31 psi (solo), 33 psi (with passenger)

c. Sport Motorcycles

Sumber: otomotif.kompas.com

Sport motorcycles require higher tire pressure because they have greater power and are often used at higher speeds. Proper pressure is important to maintain performance and stability. General recommendations:

• Front tire: 32 psi (solo), 34 psi (with passenger)
• Rear tire: 39 psi (solo), 41 psi (with passenger)

Motorcycle Tire Pressure by Tire Size

1. Tire Size 70/90 – 80/90 (Small / Daily Motorcycles)

Common on underbone and small automatic motorcycles.

Recommended pressure:

• Front tire: 26-29 psi
• Rear tire: 28-32 psi

2. Tire Size 90/90 – 100/80 (Premium Matic & Underbone)

Used on larger automatic motorcycles such as Vario, Aerox, PCX, or premium underbones.

Recommended pressure:

• Front tire: 28-31 psi
• Rear tire: 30-34 psi

3. Tire Size 110/70 – 120/70 (Entry-Level Sport Motorcycles)

Used on 150 cc sport motorcycles.

Recommended pressure:

• Front tire: 30-32 psi
• Rear tire: 32-35 psi

4. Tire Size 140/70 – 160/60 (250 cc and Above Sport Motorcycles)

These tires are wider and often handle greater load forces.

Recommended pressure:

• Front tire: 31-33 psi
• Rear tire: 34-36 psi

Tips to Maintain Ideal Motorcycle Tire Pressure

After understanding motorcycle tire pressure, it's important to know how to keep it ideal throughout your riding use. Here are some tips:

1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly Every 1–2 Weeks

Tire pressure changes over time due to temperature changes, daily use, and tire condition. Regular checks every 1–2 weeks help ensure the pressure does not drop too much and stays within the recommended range.

2. Pay Attention to Weather Effects

Weather significantly affects tire pressure:

• Hot weather: pressure increases as the air inside expands.
• Cold/rainy weather: pressure drops more quickly.

Knowing this helps you adjust check intervals and avoid unintentionally underinflated tires.

3. Use Nitrogen or Regular Air

Both nitrogen and regular compressed air have their own advantages:

Nitrogen

• More stable pressure
• Better temperature control
• Suitable for long-distance rides or high-intensity daily use

Regular Air

• Easily available at workshops and tire repair shops
• More affordable or sometimes free
   

If you prefer more consistent pressure, nitrogen is a good choice. However, regular air is perfectly safe as long as pressure checks are done routinely.

4. Adjust Pressure for Extra Load or Long Trips

When carrying extra weight or going on long trips, tire pressure should be increased slightly above the standard recommendation to maintain stability, reduce heat buildup, and ensure proper traction.

Maintaining ideal motorcycle tire pressure is important to ensure your rides are always safe, stable, and comfortable. Understanding pressure standards and how to maintain them helps reduce tire damage and extend tire lifespan.

If you're planning to buy a motorcycle and are looking for a trusted used motorcycle auction, JBA Indonesia is the right choice. JBA provides a safe and transparent auction process, available both offline and online.

To check the latest auction schedule, regularly visit the JBA auction website. You can also contact us via WhatsApp at +62 817-0993-078 if you need more information. Don't forget to follow all JBA social media accounts to stay updated with the latest information.