There are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there about tires. When to replace them, how to inflate them properly and other basic care advice can get confused in the telling. If you want to make sure you are riding safely and soundly, read on for some myth busting about your wheels.

Some fairly common misconceptions about tires include:

That wide tires provide better snow traction – This is simply not true. Wider snow tires can cause more problems in bad conditions than they can prevent. They are known for causing floating.

That tire sidewall numbers indicate proper inflation levels – This number generally reflects the maximum pressure a tire can handle upon inflation. It is best to follow manufacturer instructions.

That tires should never be rotated from side to side – If radial tires are used, this one is not true. It is important, however, to rotate about every 8,000 miles to get the best life out of a set of tires.

That tire tread is essential on dry roads – While it is never a good idea to go about daily business with no treads, the reality is they are not needed for dry conditions. Treads are meant to help vehicles stay on the road in wet conditions.

There are a lot of misconceptions about tires. Getting the facts can help you make the right choices in care and replacement.