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 InspectionElectrical Wiring
Wiring Inspection
Visually inspect the wiring for signs of burning, fraying,
etc.
If any wiring is poor, replace the damaged wiring.
Pull each connector [A] apart and inspect it for corrosion,
dirt, and damage.
If the connector is corroded or dirty, clean it carefully. If it
is da ...
Chain Slack Adjustment
Remove the cotter pin, and loosen
the axle nut.
Loosen the left and right chain adjuster
locknuts.
A. Axle Nut
B. Cotter Pin
C. Adjuster
D. Locknut
If the chain is too loose, turn out the
left and right chain adjusters evenly.
If the chain is too tight, turn in the left
...
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 ...