Tyre compound shelf life

[saf]

I've got a couple of slicks that I've had for a wee while. They're Pirelli's manufactured in 04 and 05. I've always kept them out of the rain and they've usually been stacked horizontally wall-to-wall.

They've got lots of meat left and I can still dig my thumb into the rubber. Are they safe to use or should I not be a tightarse when it comes to something as important as grip and just toss 'em and buy a new set?

[dazzler]

best bet here would be to give craig white a call mate.... he'd be in the know

[Big Lunt]

If you are using warmers should be okay

Tyres may go off - my tear up if they are but should be okay.

I have only ever bought one pair of new slicks in 8 years worth of track days.

If you are uncomfortable about riding on them by all means buy a new set.

Last ride day I was not aware I was riding on a 2000 spec bridgestone rear slick - it gripped well - was doing 43's at the creek on them and never had a moment??

[Pymm]

posting from quick Google searches!

taken from http://www.cb400f.btinternet.co.uk/tyres.htm

' 6 year shelf life - Rubber deteriorates with age whether used or not, inspect the DOT code printed on the sidewall of most tyres. From the year 2000 a tyre will have 4 digit codes in an oval box, 1406 = 14th week of 2006. Tyres are usually much less than one year old from suppliers, I have yet to buy any tyre that is more than 6 months old. '

taken from http://www.motorcycletrainingkent.com/Tyres2.htm

'Now, remember the compound "goes off", the recommended life of a tyre is only 6 years (2yrs shelf life if stored properly and 4 years on the bike). Those super-sticky's with good tread, on that bike you're buying might actually offer little grip. They might have died years ago.'