What Should the Tyre Pressures be on a Motorbike Track Day?
It’s a question that’s been asked many times on Trackday Addicts Group.
It may seem like a silly question, but adjusting your tyre pressures is actually one of the most important (and often forgotten) things to prepare before going on a motorbike track day.
We understand that your first motorbike track day can be as daunting as it is exciting…
So if you’re feeling the pressure (excuse the pun) and you’re not sure who to ask, we’ve spoken to the experts at FWR Tyres to gauge their opinions and give you a reading...
Why Should You Adjust Tyre Pressures?
Unlike riding on the road, where manufacturers set pressures for comfort, longevity, and varied conditions, track riding demands a different approach to get the best performance, grip, and safety from your tyres.
When you take your bike on track, the tyres work much harder than they do on the road. The high speeds, heavy braking, and increased lean angles generate more heat, which naturally increases tyre pressure.
If you run the same pressures as you do on the road, they can become overinflated, reducing the contact patch and grip, ultimately affecting handling and stability.
By adjusting your tyre pressures before hitting the track, you allow them to heat up and expand into their optimal operating range, maximizing grip and performance.
This can help improve your confidence, reduce tyre wear, and even enhance lap times.
Track Day Insurance
We guarantee that after your first sighting lap you will smile from ear to ear and catch the bug for more track days, but there’s often a fear of damaging your bike (or you) with an unplanned trip to the gravel.
Why not ease the pressure with track day insurance for you and your bike. Peace of mind that will enable you to relax and focus on the experience.
Recommended Track Day Tyre Pressures
The ideal tyre pressure varies depending on your motorcycle, tyres, and track conditions, but here are some general guidelines:
- Road Tyres on Track: Typically, pressures should be set around 30-32 psi (front) and 28-30 psi (rear) when cold.
- Track-Specific Tyres: These are designed to run lower pressures, often around 28-30 psi (front) and 24-26 psi (rear) when cold, as they gain more pressure when heated.
- Tyre Warmers: If using tyre warmers, adjust pressures when the tyres are hot to align with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Always check with your tyre manufacturer or experienced track riders for specific recommendations based on your bike and tyre choice.
Also, resist the urge to overthink - adjusting pressures isn’t rocket science, but it does require a little common sense, e.g. if it’s a hot track surface in Spain vs. a cold day in Blighty.
How to Adjust and Monitor Tyre Pressures
- Bring a Reliable Tyre Pressure Gauge – Digital or analog, just make sure it’s not the dodgy one from the bottom of your toolbox that hasn’t worked since 2010.
- Check Pressures When Cold – Make adjustments before your first session, as tyre pressures will rise as they heat up.
- Monitor Throughout the Day – Check pressures after sessions and adjust accordingly. If your bike starts handling like a shopping trolley, it’s time to recheck.
- Let Tyres Cool Before Rechecking – If adjusting after a session, let them cool slightly before making significant changes.
The Benefits of Proper Tyre Pressure Adjustment
- Increased Grip – More rubber in contact with the track improves traction and cornering confidence.
- Better Handling – The bike feels more stable and predictable, reducing unwanted slides or wobbles.
- Reduced Tyre Wear – Running pressures too high can cause excessive wear and overheating, reducing tyre lifespan (and your bank balance).
- Improved Safety – Avoids issues like sudden loss of grip or excessive tyre movement under braking.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting your tyre pressures might seem like a minor detail, but it can make a difference to your track day experience. It’s an easy way to improve performance, safety, and confidence on the bike, but it's not essential for your first time on track when you're unlikely to be setting lap records - if in doubt - just leave them at road pressures.
Before your next track session, take the time to set your pressures correctly, and you’ll enjoy a smoother, faster, and safer ride. Although, it’s one less excuse if your mate overtakes you!
Check out FWR Tyres for your track day rubber.
