"Chicken strips" refer to the unused portions or edges of the tread on motorcycle tires. Specifically, it refers to the strip of rubber that remains untouched or less worn on the outer edges of the tire. These strips often appear as narrow, untouched bands of rubber on the sidewalls of the tire.
Chicken strips are commonly observed on sport bikes or motorcycles that are ridden conservatively or primarily in straight-line riding conditions. They indicate that the rider has not leaned the bike over to its full potential and hasn't utilized the entire contact patch of the tire during cornering.
The term "chicken strips" is derived from the notion that riders who leave significant portions of the tire's edges unworn are considered "chicken" or lacking confidence in leaning the motorcycle into corners. It's important to note that having chicken strips doesn't necessarily mean a rider is inexperienced or lacks skill. It can simply indicate the riding style and the type of roads or conditions in which the motorcycle is primarily used.
It's worth mentioning that using the full width of the tire's tread during cornering provides optimal traction and stability. However, it's crucial to ride within your own comfort zone and capabilities while maintaining safe and controlled riding techniques. If you do wish to reduce your chicken strips and improve your cornering skills, it's advisable to seek professional training or practice in a controlled environment, such as a track day or a dedicated riding course.