Bike Tires Shelflife

[norcalbiker]

Is there a shelflife on bike tires? If there is, how long?

[Idris Icabod]

I've bought tyres in bulk and stored them for many years without problem (probably at least 5 years for some), I avoid storing them in the garage or any place overly dry (which is all relative as I live in AZ).

[Ken Robb]

It varies with the tire model and storage conditions. I've had some crack in no more than three years and some look good after ten years in the same conditions. I don't know that performance is necessarily related to appearance.

[norcalbiker]

So where would be the best place or an ideal place to store new tires?

[Elefantino]

Box 'em and stick them in a closet or cupboard where there's no excessive heat or cold, out of direct sunlight and away from anything electronic.

If you have a basement, that's a good place.

Julien Devries used to store and maybe still does store tubulars in a root cellar.

[eddief]

with the cab and the zin.

[rice rocket]

out of direct sunlight and away from anything electronic.


These two are probably the most important. Sunlight and ozone are the two biggest causes of dry rot in rubber.

[Idris Icabod]

So where would be the best place or an ideal place to store new tires?

Build a climate controlled tyre room, preferably have it built adjoining your bike room.

[norcalbiker]

Thanks everyone. Good info. :beer:

[Lifelover]

I emailed Michelin this question and they said 5-7 years stored in a cool, dark place.

If they will say 5-7 I would assume 10.

[Steve in SLO]

Any thoughts on bagging them in plastic to avoid ozone/drying?

[oliver1850]

I would think a plastic bag is a good idea. I have most of mine in a plastic storage bin in the basement. I know I've used tires that are more than ten years old, and could see no signs of dry rot.