phatch wrote:6500 miles...
Wow!
Thats way beyond average.
A few factors that create the variable are, closely maintaining tire pressure, operating time, speed, and weight.
Tire pressure is tough on a scooter, just like a bicycle.
The volume of air is comparatively small in comparison to a automobile tire and cold pressure changes a lot based on ambient temperature.
Pressure changes one p.s.i. for every seven degree F. change in ambient temperature.
This time of year, in Northern Il. it is not uncommon to have a 25 degree spread from one morning to the next.....this will change cold pressure three to four psi....a rather large change to a small volume tire.
Operating time, especially on a tire with low pressure, will lead to faster wear as well.....generally due to the fact the tire is presenting more tread to the ground and flexing more.
This makes it operate at a higher than designed temperature and, because the rubber is hotter (softer) it sheds rubber faster.
So, short hops, half hour or less, may allow low pressure operation, but longer hauls at higher speeds make it shed faster.
Just like your automobile, weight will speed wear.......again, even at the specified pressure, the tire is forced to flex at its maximum, making a good deal of heat and again, softening the rubber.
I have found that many states use a different mix of road material as well and some folks have found tire wear is longer in the 'Snow Belt' states.
This, because the material is more dense to prevent water from working under the substrate and lifting sections off when the water freezes (Potholes).
In the West and Southwest, the surface is more course, aiding in water runoff, but causing faster tire wear.
Bored yet?
Rob