Classic motorcycles with appropriate tubed tyres, do not usually run the same tyre pressures as modern motorcycles. If you read the manufacturer’s information, they will usually suggest a range of tyre pressures to suit your bike and tyres.
Classic Bike Tyres
Note: tyre pressures are critical to your safety. What I’m presenting here works for me and may work for you, but I can’t guarantee it. If you’re unsure, ask a dealer or the manufacturer…I will not accept liability for your tyre pressures.
In case it helps, these are the pressures I have found to work with various tyres on my bikes – I will add to it over time:
For reference, I am around 85kg and like to make progress sometimes, but am not a fast rider…I prefer a comfortable bimble in the countryside, rather than a high speed chase with my knee close to the ground on corners.
For most classic tyres, I start with 25 psi in the front and around 28 psi in the rear. Tyres do slowly deflate over time, so I check them frequently…before putting the bikes to bed for the winter too.
1966 Matchless G12 650 twin – AVON Roadriders – 26 front / 28 rear
1953 Matchless G3LS 350 single – AVON Speedmaster on the front and AVON Safety Master II on the rear – 25 front / 28 rear (AVON recommend 26 and 30)
1954 Norton Model 30 International – Dunlop K70s – 26 front / 28 rear