How To Avoid Dirt Bike Tire Flats

If you want to avoid or lower the chances of getting a flat tire on your dirt bike tires, then here are a few tips to help. Keep in mind these are just tips and its really only a matter of time before you get a flat if your running tubes. If you’re in need of a new set of tires make sure you check out our Tire List HERE to find the best price and save yourself some hard earned money.

Do yourself a favor and buy a good air pressure gauge Joes Racing Tire Gauge. This tire gauge reads in increments of 1 lb and 1 lb of air can make all the difference in the world between getting good traction or getting a pinch flat. A good rule of thumb is if you’re riding off road 12-13 psi is a good pressure to run.

If you like to run low air pressure, are a fast rider, or ride rocky terrain I would upgrade your stock tubes to a Heavy Duty Tube. If you like to run real low pressure you can to go an Ultra Heavy Duty Tube but these can make tire mounting a little harder.

If your rim doesn’t already have a rim lock installed I suggest adding one to help keep your tire in place. This will keep you from ripping off the valve stem. If you’re still ripping off valve stems you might want to add a second rim lock on the opposite side of your rime from the original.

Before mounting your dirt bike tire make sure there isn’t any sharp rocks, dirt, or foreign debris in your tire.

When mounting your tire add baby powder to the outside of the tube. This helps reduce friction and the tube from sticking to the tire.

When crossing logs or rocks try to make the front end light by leaning back or pre-loading your front end. This will reduce the amount of force your front tire receives when going over a large object.

If you’re on a hard packed surface or a road try to stay easy on the throttle to keep the rear tire from grabbing and squatting during acceleration. This action can cause a pinch flat or the valve stem to tear out. I know it’s fun but changing a tube isn’t.

If you’re looking for a solution that allows you to run low pressures and avoid pinch flats check out the Nuetech Tubliss system. I have heard good things about it but never used it myself. [More Info]

A Bib Mousse is the most guaranteed way to avoid getting a pinch flat, but do your homework before getting a set to make sure they work for your riding conditions. [More Info]

It’s only a matter of time before you get a flat tire on your dirt bike, so make sure you carry the tools you need to change out the tube. Here are the tools we recommend your group.