Tyre inspection

• Tread depth and knob integrity — torn, folded or missing knobs change grip and can expose the carcass.
• Sidewall cuts and cracks — especially after rocks, stumps or desert heat.
• Bulges or soft spots — stop riding; the structure may be compromised.
• Embedded debris — nails, wire, thorns; remove carefully and reassess the puncture.
• Bead seating — after low-pressure riding or a rim lock slip, confirm the tyre sits true on the rim.
• Valve, rim tape and rim lock — for tube and tubeless setups; check mousse separately.

Replace when knobs are worn past useful traction for your terrain, when cuts reach the carcass, when a puncture cannot be repaired to a safe standard, or when the tyre has aged beyond the manufacturer’s service advice. Competition use and UV/heat accelerate ageing.

If you bottom the rim, pinch-flat, or feel a sudden vibration, stop. Inspect the tyre, tube/mousse and rim before continuing.