Cycling UK Forum

Hi all,

I'm riding Schwalbe Marathons and I'm wondering if I need to change them. On the crown of the tyre is a tread-line that's shallower than all the others. It's all but disappeared, now that the tyres have worn a bit.

My question is, is this designed to be a wear indicator and now that it's gone I'd better replace the tyre? Or can I continue merrily on and worry when the normal, deeper treads are fading out of existence?

Thanks for any help!

Ed

It really doesnt matter.

I ride until I can see patches of the blue protective layer through holes in the rubber.

Others swap tyres when they notice they are starting to get more punctures than usual.

If you are trying to find grip on mud or rotting leaves a bit of tread may help.

Though I do favour my front tyres so new tyres go there and the old front tyre moves to the back.

Keep riding, enjoy riding slicks until you see whatever internal stuff of the tyres. The makers will tell you different as they want your money.

Thanks, both - think you just saved me £60!

When I have visible wear on my tyres, I swap the front for the rear. Other than that, my rule of thumb is three or more punctures on the same tyre & it goes. Once a tyre is vulnerable, I seem to get quite a few in quick succession. But they usually already look pretty knackered by the time that they get to that point.