MX5100 Tire Question

[Motion]

My front tires are 12-16.5 R4's, around the tire close to the bead on both sides, in 4 places are the words "RIM GUARD" with an arrow on both sides of the words pointing to the rim, what's the story on this? Thanks

 

[85Hokie]

My front tires are 12-16.5 R4's, around the tire close to the bead on both sides, in 4 places are the words "RIM GUARD" with an arrow on both sides of the words pointing to the rim, what's the story on this? Thanks

It simply protects the rim from being banged up against curbs, brush or anything that could cause rim damage.

this guy explains it rather well