So i did some research about my bike and found out that it is about a 2009, and it still has the factory tires on it. 6 year old tires, i was wondering what the average life span of a given tire is, in this case, Bontrager Select Invert, 700 x 35c which were factory on the bike in '09. not sure about the miles on them, but the age does concern me a little.

yeah, in about 24 years they might start popping threads, so start shopping now

Okay, so not an issue, thanks for the quick response. i was actually thinking more along the lines of likely hood for flats, rather than popping threads.

I just sold I bike that I had been riding with 10+ year old Specialized tires and the tires were fine. It depends on the tires and storage conditions. Even if the rubber is checking, the cords will be fine...unless they're cotton tubulars or something. I don't think there'll be a significant difference in their propensity to flat.

6 years old, not a problem. If they look to be in good condition, I wouldn't think about replacing them due to age until they're 10 years old or more. There's a really good chance they'd last a lot longer than that, but I tend to play it safe just so I don't get stuck many miles from home with a blown tire.

the storage conditions were... less than ideal. . . my wife had it locked up in the back yard for more than a year before i started to ride it, but they look okay and don't show excessive wear. I just know that sometimes looks can be deceiving so i thought i would play it safe and ask.

If the tires are dried out and cracking they'll probably ride like rocks, and the traction will suck. Those are the main downsides. Not what you'd want for an aggressive mountain descent, but fine for cruising around town.