Bicycle Mechanics - Preventing UV damage to tire sidewalls?

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boredo
08-21-08, 08:09 AM
My commuter bike is locked to a rack in direct sunlight all day long. I've noticed what seems to be pretty rapid UV damage to the sidewalls of the tires -- drying and cracking of the rubber. This is happening faster than the tread is wearing.

And so my question: with my next set of commuter tires, does it make sense to apply a UV protectorant, such as 303 Aerospace or Armor All, to the sidewalls (not the treads!)? Anyone else do this? Any drawbacks or safety concerns?

bikeman715
08-21-08, 08:26 AM
yes you can use one of the items in your list. I use Armor All. I apply it when they (tires) are new and reapply every few weeks. Just don't put any on the rims , if you do no brakes and that bad.
DannoXYZ
08-21-08, 02:00 PM
I wouldn't worry about the cracking rubber, it doesn't take much structural load anyway. It's the cords in the fabric that take the load the as long as those aren't compromized, you won't have any problem with the tyre. Or you can get a nicer "skinwall" tyre with no rubber on the sides.

Mondoman
08-21-08, 02:18 PM
If you do go with protectant, I'd use the 303. The silicone lube in ArmorAll will (as mentioned above) give you no brakes if it gets on the rim.