Tyres. Just two bits of rubber, what's all the fuss about?

Well, they're the only part of your motorcycle, scooter or moped in contact with the road so it's essential that they're legal and roadworthy.  How you accelerate, brake and steer is all affected by the quality and condition of your tyres.

Many people take them for granted, especially if their car or bike is fairly new, but failure to look after them and comply with the minimum legal standards can result in a fine and penalty points on your licence. Worse still, it could affect your life.

You may or may not already check most of these things regularly, but for anyone needing a bit of help we've included a few tips below with the help of TyreSafe.

• Check your tyre pressures (when your tyres are cold) at least once a week
• Inflate tyres to the pressure recommended in the manufacturer’s handbook
• Inspect tyres for cuts, bulges, uneven wear or objects embedded in the tread
• Check that your tread depth is not below the legal minimum of 1mm (for bikes over 50cc) - but we recommend you change them well before this
• If your rims are cracked or bent replace them immediately
• Check that both of your tyres are made by the same manufacturer and have the same tread pattern
• When replacing tube type tyres always use a new inner tube
• Use dust caps to keep dirt away from the valve core and to act as a secondary air seal
• Keep oil and grease off your tyres using detergent if necessary

If you're unsure on any aspect of tyres please take your bike to an approved fitting centre and speak to a qualified professional.