As spring rolls in and the roads start calling, riders all over Chicago gear up for another thrilling season. But before you twist the throttle or hit the trails, let’s talk about something that often gets overlooked—your tires. Whether you ride a motorcycle, ATV, or UTV, tire care is essential for both safety and performance. At EPM Motorsports, we take tire health seriously because we know just how much rides—and lives—depend on it. Here is an article about tire care: maximizing safety and performance for the riding season.
Tires are the only point of contact between your machine and the ground. They affect how you corner, brake, accelerate, and absorb impact. A worn or underinflated tire can compromise grip, reduce control, and increase the risk of blowouts. In Chicago’s ever-changing weather and road conditions, keeping your tires in top shape isn’t optional—it’s vital.
At EPM Motorsports, we’ve seen everything from bald tires that should’ve been replaced seasons ago to punctures riders didn’t know they had. That’s why we offer full tire services, including pressure checks, mounting and balancing, puncture repairs, and replacements personalized to your ride and how you use it.
Air pressure isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it task. As temperatures rise and fall, so does your tire pressure. An underinflated tire reduces your control and increases rolling resistance, leading to premature wear and poor fuel efficiency. Overinflation, on the other hand, can make your ride feel harsh and reduce the contact patch with the road.
We recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a week using a quality gauge, especially if your bike or ATV has been stored for an extended period. Not sure what the pressure should be? We’ll double-check your manufacturer’s specs and fill your tires to the right PSI during your routine maintenance appointment at EPM Motorsports.
Uneven wear can signal deeper issues, such as alignment problems, suspension imbalances, or poor tire pressure maintenance. Look for:
If you’re unsure what to look for, bring your vehicle by our shop in Chicago. We offer full powersports vehicle inspections and can spot issues before they lead to dangerous blowouts or poor handling.
If you feel vibration in your handlebars or foot pegs, your tires might be out of balance—or worse, your wheels could be misaligned. This not only affects your ride quality but can speed up tire degradation.
At EPM Motorsports, we use high-precision tools to perform tire balancing and wheel alignment services for motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs. A well-balanced ride means longer tire life, smoother handling, and safer riding conditions.
Your tread depth plays a big role in traction, especially in wet or uneven terrain. Riding on slick tires is like asking for an accident. Most states require a minimum tread depth of 1/32 inch, but that’s the bare minimum. For motorcycles and off-road machines, we recommend replacing tires before they get close to that point.
Need new rubber? We stock a range of performance tires from trusted brands. Whether you’re commuting daily or heading off-road for a weekend adventure, we’ll help you pick the right tire for your lifestyle. Also, we understand the inconvenience of disposing of old, used, or damaged tires responsibly. That’s where our Chicago tire disposal service comes in.
Storing your bike or ATV for the off-season? Don’t let your tires develop flat spots or cracks. Always lift the vehicle to take weight off the tires or roll it occasionally. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from extreme cold. Not sure how to prep it for winter? Our powersports winterization service includes tire checks, inflation, and full storage prep to keep your ride road-ready year-round.
Tires have a shelf life—even if they “look fine.” The rubber compound breaks down over time, which can lead to sudden failure even with good tread left. At EPM Motorsports, we’ll inspect the date codes on your tires and give you honest advice on whether it’s time for a replacement. Our team will make sure your machine rolls out safer than it came in.
Here’s how our shop helps riders like you take tire care seriously without the guesswork:
We’re more than a repair shop—we’re part of Chicago’s powersports community. Whether you ride a Harley, a Yamaha R1, a Polaris RZR, or a Honda Grom, we’ve got the tools, the know-how, and the passion to keep your machine at its best.
If you’re planning to ride this season, make tire care a top priority. It’s one of the easiest ways to improve your machine’s safety and performance. Whether you need a pressure check, a new set of tires, or help choosing the right tread, we’ve got your back. Ask for repairs or contact us at (773) 207-3730 or email info@epmmotorsports.com.
