Whether you use your scooter every day or only occasionally, choosing the right tyres is important. It affects your safety, comfort, and your scooter’s performance. Their effectiveness varies according to the weather conditions and the type of scooter you ride.
Tyres for different types of scooters
The choice of scooter tyres depends largely on the type of scooter you ride.
50cc scooter
50cc scooters are often used in town at moderate speeds. This type of scooter requires light, nimble tyres that offer good grip at low speed and sufficient comfort for urban roads.
125cc scooter
More powerful than 50cc models, 125cc scooters require tyres capable of handling higher speeds and longer distances. For this type of vehicle, prioritise models that offer a good balance between grip and longevity.
Maxi-scooter (+250cc)
A maxi-scooter is a high-displacement scooter that combines the benefits of a conventional scooter with performance close to that of a motorbike.
Tyres intended for maxi-scooters are engineered to meet their specific demands. They stand out thanks to a reinforced construction and enhanced performance. They provide improved high-speed stability while maintaining a good level of comfort.
Electric scooters
Electric scooters are quiet and eco-friendly. The weight of the batteries increases the vehicle’s overall mass, so the tyres are reinforced.
Three-wheeled scooters
Three-wheeled scooters require tyres specifically designed for their particular architecture. With two front wheels and a higher weight than a conventional scooter, they need tyres that can ensure good road holding, especially in bends and on wet surfaces.
The front tyres are under greater stress, so prioritise reinforced models suited to this configuration.
Which type of scooter tyre should you choose
As with cars, there are different types of scooter tyre depending on the weather conditions.
Summer tyres: Summer tyres are designed to deliver excellent performance on dry roads and in warm weather. Their compound is stiffer, enabling better resistance to high temperatures while ensuring slower wear. However, these tyres become less effective in rain, ice, or snow.
Winter tyres: Winter tyres are made from a rubber compound specifically adapted to low temperatures. This helps maintain good grip in cold weather. In addition, the deeper tread grooves improve traction on wet, icy, or snowy roads. For confident winter riding, this is the tyre type to choose.
All-season tyres: A compromise between summer and winter tyres. They allow you to ride all year round. They offer a good balance of grip, comfort, and durability. They are suited to moderate temperatures and wet surfaces.
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Which tyres should you choose for a moped?
The most common moped tyre sizes are 2.25 x 17 or 1.50 x 16, depending on the model.
The choice mainly depends on how you use it: in town, opt for a narrow tyre with a soft compound that provides good grip and comfort.
If you also ride on wet roads or tracks, choose a tyre with a more pronounced tread pattern to evacuate water better and maintain good road holding.
Leading brands such as Michelin, Continental, and Heidenau offer reliable, suitable moped tyres, ensuring safety and longevity.
Tubeless tyres or with inner tube?
A tubeless tyre (TL) contains no inner tube: the air is sealed directly between the tyre and the rim. This is the most common type on modern scooters. It offers greater safety in the event of a puncture and requires less maintenance.
Conversely, a tyre with an inner tube (TT) has an internal tube that holds the pressurised air. This older system remains common on mopeds, which often use small rims that still require this type of fitment.
In summary, modern scooters favour the tubeless tyre for its convenience, whereas many mopeds and older small-displacement models still use tube-type tyres.
How long does a scooter tyre last?
On average, a scooter tyre lasts between 6,000 and 12,000 km or 3 to 5 years, depending on engine size, rubber quality, inflation pressure, and riding style.
To maximise the life of your scooter tyres: check pressure monthly and avoid harsh starts. Tyres in good condition ensure safety, grip, and effective braking.
How do you know if a scooter tyre is worn?
To check whether a scooter tyre is worn, start by checking the wear indicator. Then inspect the tread: a flat surface in the centre, cracks, bulges, or torn sipes indicate tired rubber. If the tyre is more than 5 years old or causes abnormal vibrations, replace it without delay.
