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 InspectionSubthrottle Valve Actuator Resistance Inspection
Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
Disconnect the subthrottle valve actuator connector [A].
Connect a digital meter to the subthrottle valve actuator
connector [A].
Measure the subthrottle valve actuator resistance.
Subthrottle Valve Actuator Resistance
Connections: Y/BK lead [1 ...
Steering Play Inspection
Remove the lower fairings (see Lower Fairing Removal in
the Frame chapter).
Raise the front wheel off the ground with the jack.
Special Tools - Jack: 57001-1238
Jack Attachment: 57001-1608
With the front wheel pointing straight ahead, alternately
tap each end of the handlebar. The f ...
Special Tools
Bearing Puller:
57001-135
Head Pipe Outer Race Press Shaft:
57001-1075
Steering Stem Nut Wrench:
57001-1100
Bearing Driver Set:
57001-1129
Steering Stem Bearing Driver, 42.5:
57001-1344
Steering Stem Bearing Driver Adapter,
41.5:
57001-1345
Head Pipe Outer Race Driver, 55:
57001- ...