First: choose a safe stopping place
If the bike starts to pull, wobble or lose pressure, reduce speed smoothly and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Move out of the live lane only if the motorcycle remains controllable; stop at the nearest safe location away from traffic. On a shoulder with fast-moving vehicles, do not stand beside the wheel or start unpacking tools if you cannot work clear of traffic.
Switch off the engine and make people safe before inspecting anything. Use your roadside-assistance or insurer contact if available. If the location is exposed or unsafe, prioritize getting yourself and any passenger to a protected place and arranging recovery.
- Get completely clear of moving traffic
- Use assistance/recovery when the location is unsafe
- Do not attempt roadside work in a live lane
Decide whether the bike should be moved
Do not continue on a visibly flat tyre or when the motorcycle feels unstable. A damaged sidewall, displaced bead, bent wheel, leaking valve or continuing pressure loss needs professional attention; a pump cannot make structural damage safe. Michelin specifically advises towing when the tyre bead is damaged.
Do not pull out an embedded object while still in an unsafe location. Once safely stopped, note the tyre type and visible damage without putting yourself in traffic. If you are unsure whether it is a tube or tubeless setup, consult the manual or a tyre professional rather than guessing.
- Flat, unstable or structural damage: arrange recovery
- Bead damage: tow rather than use a temporary kit
- Uncertain tyre type or damage: ask a professional
What a roadside plug can and cannot do
An external plug or sealant is not a permanent repair by default. Michelin says its repair kit is only a temporary solution to get to the nearest professional; the tyre needs to be inspected internally because the puncture and any low-pressure running may have caused damage that is not visible outside.
If you have a compatible kit and the tyre maker's instructions say the specific puncture can be treated temporarily, follow the kit's limits exactly. If it will not hold pressure, the damage is outside the permitted area, the bead is affected or you do not know what repair is appropriate, do not ride on it. Arrange a tow.
- Use only a compatible kit and its instructions
- A temporary seal is not clearance for a normal journey
- Have the tyre assessed internally as soon as possible
Before the next trip
Check whether your motorcycle uses a tube or tubeless tyre, save assistance numbers offline and read the bike and tyre maker's guidance before you need it. A repair kit is useful only if it matches the tyre and you understand its limitations; carrying one does not replace recovery cover or professional inspection.
For trip preparation, use the existing BikersDunia touring checklist and maintenance companion. Do not improvise pressure values, speed limits or a safe distance after a repair: use the exact tyre/kit instructions and the professional's advice.