What is a Directional Tire, and Why MUST You Fit It Correctly?

 Are you thinking of fitting directional tires to your bike? If so, there are a few things you must know first.

For starters, they must be fitted the right way. 

In this blog post, you’ll discover:

• What a directional tire is
• The difference between directional vs. asymmetrical tires
• Why it’s so crucial that your directional tires are fitted the right way

What is a Directional Tire?

And it’s all possible thanks to the tire’s unique tread pattern, which has a shape similar to the letter “V.”

In addition, the most significant telltale sign of a directional tire is the word “Rotation” or “Directional” stamped on the side wall, next to a small arrow, which looks something like this:

Directional vs. asymmetrical tires

Instead, they’ll have an outside that you must fit so that it faces away from the motorcycle or scooter’s wheel hub.

Aside from that, an asymmetrical tire has an “OUTSIDE” stamp on the tire sidewall.

What Happens If Directional Tires Are Fitted The Wrong Way?

Of course, that’s assuming that you fit them the right way. 

If you don’t, your traction will suffer, while your risk of hydroplaning increases if you ride through a puddle after (or even during) a rainstorm.

That’s bad enough, but a directional tire fitted the wrong way will also wear down faster.

Are you in the UK?

But what’s worse than a drop in traction and an increased risk of hydroplaning or aquaplaning?

Failing your MOT inspection.

Yes, an incorrectly fitted directional tyre is enough to fail your annual MOT inspection and make it illegal for your to ride your motorcycle or scooter until you’ve solved the problem.

How can I make sure my directional tires are fitted correctly?

Here’s where the unique “V-shaped” tire tread pattern comes in.

If the tires are fitted correctly, you’ll be able to see the V-pattern when you look directly at the tire tread itself.