Originally Posted by
Looigi
IMO, manufacturers put wear indicators on tires to get you to buy tires more frequently than you you otherwise would and more frequently that needed. Replace a tire when the cords start showing.
In my experience, worn tires flat no more frequently than new ones, but his may depend on the types and number of tire hazards where you ride.
I don't doubt you're right. It is a small savings to keep riding the tire past the indicator. I wouldn't be in a panic to change the tire right at the indication point, but it couldn't hurt either. Cords? I dunno. That is a little extreme for my taste. I feel like it is just asking for trouble.