April 21, 2009

How to check the ATV tire pressure

By regularly checking the pressure in your atv tires, you're assuring the atv will always drive & brake in a straight line. Check the atv tire pressure regulary!

Use a tire-pressure gauge. You can also use the pressurized-air machines at many gas stations and garages, although they might not always be accurate or functioning.

STEP 1: You can't tell whether a tire has the correct air pressure just by looking at it. Always use a tire-pressure gauge.

STEP 2: Look for the air-pressure specifications for your atv's tires on your atv warning labels or in the owners manual. Don't look at the tire's sidewall for the air-pressure specifications, as it lists the maximum pressure for the tire.

TIP: Make sure the rear tires always have 50grams more pressure then the front tires.

STEP 3: Unscrew the plastic cap on the air valve. Put it in your pocket so you don't lose it.

STEP 4: Press the tire-pressure gauge against the valve and hold it down firmly. If you hear a hissing noise, you are letting air out. Press down harder.

STEP 5: Read the measurement on the gauge.

STEP 6: Add air as needed, but don't overfill the tire. Let some air out of the tires if you accidentally overfill them. Press down on the small needle in the center of the valve to let air out. Most tire-pressure gauges have a small knob for this purpose, but a fingernail or a pen will do the trick.