Born on Date

[speedfreakjr]

Could anyone tell me how to identify the manufactue date on new tires? It's almost time for replacements and don't want a "great deal"  from the local shop or anywere,if you know what I mean.  

[Red01]

From http://www.us.metzelermoto.com/product_info/pcare/reading_tire/index.htm



1. Metzeler = Brand name
2. E3 = code identifying the country where the tire has been homologated
3. 75R-xzy = ECE homologation code
4. Max. load… = specification of the max permitted load on the tire at the specified inflated pressure in cold conditions
5. DOT = Department Of Transportation. This indicates that the tire conforms the regulations issued by the transportations dept's in USA and Canada
6. 3403 = the first 2 numbers identify the week (34 th ) and the last 2 the year (2003) in which the tire was produced
7. Tread: = specification of the number of plies used for carcass and belt and the correspondent material used
8. Roadtec Z6 = Product line name
9. A = special version code. This letter identifies a special construction of the tire, dedicated to a specific bike
10. Steel radial = Specification of construction typology
11. 180 = nominal section width in mm
12. 55 = aspect ratio: this percentage value identifies the ratio between tire section height and nominal width. This is not indicated when the section width is expressed in inches
13. ZR = code identifying tire construction technology (“-“: bias, “B”: bias-belted, “R”:radial)
14. 17 = nominal rim diameter size expressed in inches
15. M/C = Motorcycle in abbreviated form. Needed to differentiate
motorcycle tires and rims from those designed for other vehicles.
16. 73 = load index code identifying the max permitted load. Please refer to conversion table for values in kg / lbs
17. W = speed index code identifying the max permitted speed. Please refer to conversion table for values in km/h – mph
18. TL = Tubeless. This tire doesn't need a tube. Please consult the “safety” section regarding the use of tubes in tubeless tires
19. Made in Germany = indicates where the tire has been produced
20. Arrow = The arrow indicates the rotation direction of the tire accordingly to its fitting position (front or rear). In case a rear tire is fitted on a front wheel, the tire has to be fitted reverse to the rotating direction indicated on the sidewall. Fitment of front tires on rear wheel is not permitted.

[tacoman]

Wow, thats a cool graph.  Age is just as important as wear, especially if the bike has spent much time outdoors.  I think they say 7 years is max for a tire, and thats for automotive, if its older toss it.

[jfudo]

Nice find Red!  Good information.

Most importantly, I now know the secret meaning behind the code labeled "Made in Germany"