Best motorcycle tyre pressure monitoring systems

One of the ‘new fangled’ safety systems that some manufacturers fit to higher-specification motorcycles is a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

• Related: Your ultimate guide to motorcycle tyres

Carried over from the car world, which admittedly uses the system to alert drivers of cars fitted with run-flat tyres of a problem, this system can provide a crucial early warning of a problem with a tyre and give the rider time to stop safety before experiencing a dangerous fast deflation.

Cars using run-flat tyres need it as some drivers may not be aware they have lost tyre pressure, as these tyres are designed to stay on the wheel rim when some or all of the inflation air has been lost – specially designed beads stay on the rim and stronger sidewalls support the weight of the vehicle.

On a bike, this isn’t practical but anything that can give advance warning of impending problems can make a big difference to safety, not just for the rider and pillion but other road users as well. Particularly useful if you travel long distances commuting of burning through miles on a touring bike.

Bikes such as high-end BMWs and KTMs feature TPMS from the factory but it is possible to fit an aftermarket system to any bike. Factory systems use sensors built in to the wheels but the aftermarket uses tyre pressure sensors that screw on to the pressure valves and read the actual air pressure in real time.

• Related: Best motorcycle wheel and tyre accessories

However, don’t think that this is a replacement for regularly checking your tyres – a system like this is there to offer a warning of problems, not eliminate the need for you to check regularly.

They won’t for example, show whether you have any damage to your tyre or how they are wearing. You still need to do your regular checks.

Here is a selection of TPMS systems for motorcycles.

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