Cracking or a “snake-skin” pattern around the tire sidewall is another condition sometimes seen in owners who take extra care of their motorcycles or regularly use professional cleaning services. One common step after washing is applying tire dressing or wax to make the tire look shiny and new.

However, when used on Pirelli motorcycle tires, these coatings can react with the rubber, causing the “snake-skin” cracks around the sidewall. This often worries owners, who may think the cracks are dangerous. In reality, these cracks only affect the outer layer of the rubber and do not directly compromise the tire’s structural integrity.

This condition is more common in older tires or tires that have been unused for a long period. Additionally, applying tire dressings can accelerate rubber degradation, making it hard and less grippy, because the chemicals in these products speed up the tire’s aging process.