Confused about tire pressure - Spyder feels squirrelly, do I go up, or down?

[BajaRon]

Does the 4psi rule apply to both OEM and Aftermarket tires? Interesting writeup btw.

As mentioned above, there is a world of difference between the OEM Kenda's and what is referred to as 'Car' or 'Aftermarket' tire. Which is a misnomer because the OEM Kenda's are a 'Car' tire. Just so poorly made that you would never actually want to run them on a car.

Because the sidewalls on OEM Kenda's are so weak, you want to keep pressures up. Especially if you are heavily loaded or ride hard. But with well made car tires, lower pressures are acceptable and even preferable, depending on loading and riding style.

In short, you've got an Apples & Oranges situation here. And it is wise to know the difference.

 

[Ages]

Give it more time and relax your grip on the bars. Many years on 2 wheels has conditioned you to want to lean thru the curves. Leaning your body may help keep all three tires on the road on a three wheeler, but it will not guide it thru a curve. Three wheelers must be streered thru the curves with a gentle push / pull on the bars. It takes some riding time to get away from leaning and into steering. When you do it with out thinking about doing it, you will have adjusted to riding three wheels. Once you adjust, it will no longer feel like the trike is trying to buck you off on the sweepers and you will be riding smooth and easy.

Riding two up is different on three wheels also. Be sure if you have a passenger, their body movement in the curves is not fighting your steering. The passenger has to adjust also if they are conditioned to ride on the pillion of a two wheeler.

You're absolutely right, I'm going to have to recondition for three wheels. I'm really liking this Spyder.

 

[racoon]

Does the 4psi rule apply to both OEM and Aftermarket tires? Interesting writeup btw.

Simple answer: yes.

The TPMS system in my Honda Ridgeline truck has a display where you can show the pressure in all four tires.
If one of the tires is low it will automatically switch to the tire display, and lights a yellow "Tire Pressure Low" warning.
If I read the Owners Manual correctly, a difference of 3 psi will cause the warning. Recommended pressure is 35 psi.