As the UK experiences a significant rise in the number of powered two-wheeler (PTW) registrations, TyreSafe, the national tyre safety charity, is taking proactive steps to ensure rider safety. With new motorcycle registrations up by nearly 20% in 2024* and December 2024 seeing an astonishing 114% increase in registrations compared to the previous year**, TyreSafe is reinforcing its commitment to educating riders about the importance of tyre maintenance.
Spring Surge in Riders Calls for Increased Safety Awareness
The growth in PTW usage is encouraging, with more people embracing motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds for commuting, work, and leisure. However, as the Spring season arrives, TyreSafe warns that many bikes are returning to the road after months in storage. This period presents unique challenges for riders, from unpredictable weather conditions to potential tyre degradation.
A particularly noteworthy trend is the rising number of smaller PTWs, with 45,251 motorcycles up to 125cc / 11kW sold in 2024, accounting for 39% of the market**. This category, prevalent among 16-24-year-olds, includes many new and less experienced riders who may be unfamiliar with essential tyre maintenance practices. Given the seasonal hazards such as wet roads, debris, and potholes caused by winter conditions, tyre safety checks are more critical than ever.
TyreSafe’s ACT Campaign: The Key to Safer Riding
To support the growing PTW community, TyreSafe is launching a comprehensive suite of motorcycle tyre safety resources. These materials, available to road safety partners and riders alike, provide essential guidance on maintaining tyres for safe and sustainable riding.
At the heart of TyreSafe’s campaign is the ACT message, a simple yet crucial reminder for all riders:
- Air: Check tyre pressure regularly and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Underinflated tyres can reduce stability and increase wear, posing a serious safety risk.
- Condition: Inspect tyres for visible damage, including cuts, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects that could lead to sudden failure.
- Tread: Ensure compliance with legal tread depth requirements—motorcycles over 50cc must have a minimum tread depth of 1mm across three-quarters of the tread, while smaller mopeds require a visible tread pattern. Inadequate tread reduces grip and extends braking distances, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
“With the increasing number of people using powered two-wheelers for commuting and work in addition to leisure riding, tyre safety has never been more important,” said Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair. “Spring weather can be unpredictable, and after months in storage, tyres may not be in the best condition. Riders must take a few moments to check their tyres for air pressure, condition, and tread depth before every ride.”
Empowering Riders with Safety Resources
TyreSafe’s initiative is designed to make tyre maintenance a regular habit for all riders, regardless of their experience level. By providing educational materials and reinforcing the ACT message, the charity aims to reduce the risk of tyre-related incidents and enhance overall road safety.
As more people rely on PTWs for daily transport, ensuring tyre roadworthiness is essential not only for individual safety but for the well-being of all road users. TyreSafe encourages riders to stay informed and utilise the newly available safety resources.
For more information and access to the latest motorcycle tyre safety materials, visit TyreSafe.org.
