Tyre Warmers for RC Motorcycles – Are They Worth It?

When you first get into RC motorcycles, tyre warmers are one of those extras that many new pilots look at and wonder: Are they really necessary? Do they even make a difference on such small models?

The short answer: Yes, they do — especially for RC motorcycles. While warmers are often considered an accessory only for serious competition in RC cars, the story is very different for bikes. Let’s break down why.

Team M-One 1:5 Warmers

Why Tyre Warmers Matter for RC Motorcycles

Unlike most RC car tyres, RC motorcycles use true rubber tyres with a solid insert. At around 5mm thick, they behave almost identically to full-size motorcycle tyres. That means temperature plays a huge role in grip and stability.

There are a few different compounds available, but the two most common are:

• M3 – Mostly natural rubber, the go-to compound for over 90% of conditions.

• R2 – Mostly synthetic rubber, slightly different grip and wear profile.

The key difference? M3 tyres require heat to perform properly.Without some warmth in the rubber, it can be extremely difficult — sometimes impossible — to keep your bike upright, especially at low speeds.

Tip for New Pilots:

If you don’t yet own warmers and are starting out in cooler conditions, we recommend the R2 compound. While R2 tyres still perform best when warmed, it’s possible to get running without them in lower ambient temperatures — unlike M3s, which can be unforgiving when cold.

The Benefits of Tyre Warmers

1. Immediate Maximum Grip No more falling over or sliding around on the first few laps — warmers get the tyres into their ideal operating range before you hit the track.

2. Consistent Handling Warm tyres behave predictably, giving you stable and confidence-inspiring handling throughout your run.

3. Reduced Tyre Damage Running cold tyres can cause “cold tearing,” especially on harder compounds. Warmers help avoid this and extend tyre life.

4. Better Adhesion of Traction Sauce If you use additives, applying them to pre-heated tyres allows the sauce to soak in more effectively.

5. Competitive Edge In racing, skipping the slow warm-up laps means you’re at full pace from the start — a real advantage over anyone waiting for their tyres to come in.

Cold Tearing, What is it?

Cold tearing is one of the biggest risks of running tyres without proper heat. On RC motorcycle tyres, it looks like deep, fingernail-shaped cuts or chunks of rubber peeling away from the surface.

It happens when:

• A cold tyre is pushed too hard, too soon.

• The surface overheats rapidly while the inner structure of the tyre remains cold.

• The outer layer rips and tears instead of heating evenly.

  
  

The result? A rough, feathered tyre surface and reduced lifespan. If you notice cold tearing, it’s a clear sign your tyres need warming before being pushed to the limit.

Best Practices for Using Tyre Warmers

• Warm-up Time: Give tyres at least 15–20 minutes on the warmers before hitting the track.

• Temperature Control: Stick to recommended temps (usually 60–70°C for M3 compound) to avoid overheating and damaging the rubber.

• Use Consistently: Even if you’re just practicing, using warmers builds consistency in your bike’s behavior, which helps improve your riding skills.

• Combine with Traction Sauce (Optional): For maximum grip, apply your sauce after the tyres are warm, then let it sit a few minutes before running.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Tyre warmers might seem like an extra expense, but for RC motorcycles, they’re a game-changer. They make your rc motorcycle easier to ride, more predictable, and far more enjoyable — especially when you’re still learning. Think of them not just as a racing tool, but as an investment in better control, faster progress, and more fun on the track.

You can check out the range of warmers we carry here, https://www.holeshothobbies.com.au/rc-bike-tyres

If you still got questions, drop us a comment below or send an email to info@holeshothobbies.com.