The small spikes on motorcycle tires (vent spews) are a by-product of tire manufacturing. However, these small spikes have no effect on the tire’s operation.
In fact, these fibers are properly called vent spews.
They’re known as’vent spews’, which is an odd word for something quite common.
Other names include sprue nubs, tire nibs, gate markings, and nippers.
The hairs play an important function in the tire manufacturing process.
To understand why, first learn a little about how tires are created.
A green tire (a tyre compound formed into shape but lacking markings, information, or a tread pattern) is placed in a tyre mould.
Heat and pressure are applied to the green tyres. The rubber expands to fill the mould, forming the tread pattern and Toyo Tires Proxes or Open Country label in the process.
During the application of pressure and heat, air bubbles may develop between the rubber and the mould. Air bubbles hinder the mould from developing properly.
A spew hole, also known as a vent sprue, is the tube that allows excess pressure to escape when the rubber expands.
Toyo Tires’ technical manager, Steve Burke, explains why your new tires have these hairs/nibs/nubs/spews.
“Air exits, ensuring that no air bubbles form between the tyre and the mould, and it transports small pieces of rubber. This is how vent spews are produced.
“The spews on the tread face are mostly shaved off, but on the shoulders and sidewall of the tyre, spews remain intact.”
So, should you delete them?
“It doesn’t really matter. Vent spews provide no practical use after production. Many show car owners take great delight in shaving or trimming the nibs,” explains Steve.
“There is no practical reason to remove them, but if you must, avoid using scissors and blades and simply grab them with your hand and pull them off.” It’s actually quite effective stress alleviation.”
Another enigma was solved.
Get your hands on a new pair of Toyo tires from a dealer near you, and get up close and personal with your own vent spews.