Tyres

Tyre selection



Racing/road tyre. For racing or road bikes, you want a light, slick tyre that can withstand high air pressure.  You also want minimum rolling resistance or friction with the road. The narrowest tyre is 20 c. The "c" stands for millimetres.   Expect to pay approximately £15+



Commuter or High-Mileage Tyres. These tyres are for people who put a lot of mileage on their bikes, like commuters or long-distance recreational riders. They are heavier, but last longer; manufacturers say 1000-2000 miles, but the actual mileage varies depending on how you ride, your weight, and if the tyre is on the front or back. (Back tyres wear out faster because of weight and drive force.)   Expect to pay anywhere between £15 and £30. 

 

Hybrid tyre. Hybrid bicycles (sometimes called comfort bikes) land somewhere between a road bike and a mountain bike and hybrid tyres are also somewhere in between. They often have a dual tread, a smoother pattern in the middle to reduce rolling resistance and a rougher pattern on either side of this to add stability on dirt or loose surfaces. Width of hybrid tyres ranges from 25-40 c. You can put them on your road bike depending on how much clearance you have around your brakes and forks.  Expect to pay around £20. 

 

Mountain bike tyres. Mountain bike tyres have thick, knobbly treads that are designed to grip in mud and off road obstructions such as rocks and tree routes.  The tyres are usually a lot wider and hold a greater volume, this is to cushion the ride and allow them to grip in difficult conditions.  Because mountain bike tyres have thick knobbly treads the rolling resistance is considerably higher and therefore are not suitable for great mileage on the roads.  If you are using your mountain bike to commute for example it is well worth considering a tyre change.  Expect to pay anywhere between £15 and £40. 

Generally!
 
Whichever type of tyre you decide upon ensure that the pressure stays within the maximum and minimum stamped on the side of the tyre wall. If you are constantly getting punctures try increasing the tyre pressure, this will allow the tyre to repel sharp objects. You should never exceed the maximum stated pressure.
 


Your tyre is an essential part of your bike if it is worn or cracked you should replace the tyre before use, your local bike shop will be able to help if you have problems.