Riders in India consider winters as the best season as opposed to summer, considering there's less heat to deal with. However, riding in winters in India brings its own set of challenges - cold mornings, slippery roads, foggy surroundings, and fluctuating tyre pressures. Might not sound realistic, but fluctuating tyre pressure and temperature are the biggest hazards. To deal with these issues in cars, users have resorted to using Nitrogen in tyres, but can it offer the same results for motorcycles?
To fight the issues, using nitrogen instead of regular air in tyres has gained traction among bikers, as Nitrogen offers better pressure stability and safety. But does it really make a difference in winter conditions? Well, mist on your visor is not the only problem in winters, tyre performance can make or break your ride. Here's a deep dive into whether nitrogen is worth it for your motorcycle tyres during the colder months.
Why Tyre Pressure Drops In Winter?
Cold weather causes air molecules to contract, and thus, reducing the tyre pressure. For reference: a drop of 1-degree Celsius can lower pressure by about 0.2 psi. And, underinflated tyres compromise grip and fuel efficiency. They also result in uneven tyre wear. A cold winter morning will make you feel that your tyre is underinflated, but once you start riding, the air pressure will increase as the temperature of the tyre rises. Therefore, it is advised to check the tyre pressure after riding a few kilometers.
Nitrogen Vs Regular Air: What's The Difference?
Nitrogen molecules are larger and less prone to temperature-induced expansion or contraction compared to oxygen. This means nitrogen-filled tyres maintain pressure more consistently, reducing the need for frequent top-ups in winter.
Does Nitrogen Improve Safety In Winters?
Stable tyre pressure translates to better handling and braking, which is critical on foggy, slippery roads. While one theory says that Nitrogen minimises sudden pressure drops, reducing the risk of tyre-related mishaps during long winter rides. However, on the contrary, another belief is that Nitrogen restricts tyres from heating up and also the pressure too, doesn't rise as quickly as regular air. This often leads to reduced grip in winter.
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Cost And Convenience
Filling nitrogen costs Rs 50-150 per tyre at most service stations. However, availability can be an issue in remote areas. If you tour extensively, carrying a portable inflator for emergencies is still a must.
The Verdict: Should You Stick To Nitrogen?
For daily commuters, regular air with frequent pressure checks works fine. For long-distance riders or performance bikes, nitrogen offers peace of mind with consistent pressure and reduced oxidation inside the tyre. It's not mandatory, but it's a smart upgrade for winter reliability.
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Bottom Line
If you plan to use Nitrogen in your tyres during summer, it's the best TLC you can offer to your motorcycle tyres. In winter, it might affect grip levels on a cold morning. To deal with it, fill 2 psi more than the manufacturer's recommended tyre pressure.