As the tire tread wears down, the tire becomes more susceptible to puncture and failure. An accepted estimate is that 90% of all tire failures occur during the last 10% of tread life (90% worn). So it is false economy and unsafe to use the tires until they are bald.
If any measurement is less than the service limit, replace the tire (see Tire Removal/Installation in the Wheels/Tires chapter).

Tread Depth Standard:
Front 3.6 mm (0.14 in.)
Rear 5.3 mm (0.21 in.)
Service Limit:
Front 1 mm (0.04 in.) (AT, CH, DE) 1.6 mm (0.06 in.)
Rear 2 mm (0.08 in.) (Up to 130 km/h (80 mph)) 3 mm (0.12 in.) (Over 130 km/h (80 mph))
| WARNING Some replacement tires may adversely affect handling and cause an accident resulting in serious injury or death. To ensure proper handling and stability, use only the recommended standard tires for replacement, inflated to the standard pressure. |
NOTE
Wheel/Tire Damage Inspection
Wheel Bearing Damage InspectionThermostat Inspection
Remove the thermostat (see Thermostat Removal).
Inspect the thermostat valve [A] at room temperature.
If the valve is open, replace the thermostat with a new
one.
To check valve opening temperature, suspend the thermostat
[A] in a container of water and raise the temperature
of ...
Tire Air Pressure Inspection
Remove the air valve cap.
Measure the tire air pressure with an air pressure gauge
[A] when the tires are cold (that is, when the motorcycle
has not been ridden more than a mile during the past 3
hours).
Install the air valve cap.
Adjust the tire air pressure according to the specifi ...
Seat Cover Removal
Remove:
Rear Seat (see Rear Seat Removal)
Remove the bolts [A].
Remove the upper seat cover backward [B] to clear the
hook portions.
Remove:
Front Seat (see Front Seat Removal)
Quick Rivets [A]
Bolts [B]
Seat Covers [C]
...