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 InspectionIntake Air Pressure Sensor #2 Removal
NOTICE
Never drop the intake air pressure sensor #2 especially
on a hard surface. Such a shock to the sensor
can damage it.
Remove:
Air Cleaner Housing (see Air Cleaner Housing Removal
in the Fuel System (DFI) chapter)
Intake Air Pressure Sensor #2 Connector [A]
Remove the intake air ...
Rear Frame Front Removal
Remove:
Rear Frame Rear (see Rear Frame Rear Removal)
Rear Fender Front (see Rear Fender Front Removal)
Rear Footpeg Bracket Bolts [A]
Rear Footpeg Bracket [B]
Rear Frame Front Bolts [C]
Left Rear Frame Front [D]
Remove:
Rear Footpeg Bracket Bolts [A]
Rear Footpeg Bracke ...
Lower Crankcase Assembly
Install the ball bearing [A] and the oil level inspection window
[B] until they are bottomed
Apply soap and water solution to the oil level inspection
window before installation.
Install the new circlip [C].
Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the oil passage
plug [D].
Tighten: ...