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Research >> Road Bike >> Mountain Bike Tires

Best Road Tires for Mountain Bike

best road tires for mountain bike Tread Puncture Protection Sub-Tread Beads

Getting the best road tires for mountain bike would not only require knowing which one is of high quality. Every cyclist should know every bit of detail as to why such is deemed high quality. This is to ensure that before riding on the bike, one knows exactly the capability of the front and rear tires. This way, cyclists will also know what to expect from it and how to handle it better. Alas, choosing the best one may not be as easy as bikers want it to be. Whether it's shopping online or in a local bike shop, an individual may be surprised with the plethora of choices that every biker can have. So, to make the shopping less daunting, here is a list of the best mountain bike road tires. 

Vittoria Martello G2.0 Enduro Tire

Vittoria Martello G2.0 Enduro Tire
Image Source: www.vittoria.com

Vittoria Martello is an excellent tire for all-mountain and trail riders. This is also a great choice as a front tire for most conditions. Bikers who are into an even more aggressive ride and will not mind putting on extra weight and increased rolling resistance, they can have Vittoria Martello both front and rear tires. These tires guarantee better grip even on ripping descents. It also does a great job in tackling mixed to loose conditions. Its square-looking knobs adds up to a biker’s confidence. Although these Martellos was first introduced in 27.5 and 29-inch diameters with its width only at 2.35-inch, today bikers can already find these tires at 2.8-inch width option. This is good news especially to cyclists looking to ride on loose dirt while also steering on roads with scattered roots. 

Pros
  • All-around and trail-oriented tire

Cons
  • May be found to be overkill for some trail riders

Continental Trail King Fold ProTection Bike Tire

Continental Trail King Fold ProTection Bike Tire
Image Source: www.continental-tires.com

Continental Trail King makes use of Cordura panel for its sidewall. One great advantage of using Cordura panel is the protection it offers coupled with good air retention. Cordura panel makes the tire more airtight which also translates to less sealant. Continental Trail King also made changes to the casing material. It now has a straighter bias thereby enabling the tires to roll better and improved ability to tackle loads and stresses on the road. Its Apex insert also went from just being above the bead but now with Continental Trail King it is now halfway up the sidewall. This results in stiffer sidewalls that also creates a cushion for better protection against pinch flat. Another impressive thing about Continental Trail King tires is that the ideal rim width was molded onto the sidewalls. So, this eliminates much of the guesswork that one has to do when trying to figure out whether it’s designed for a 22mm or 45mm rim width. For as long as the tire is within the recommended rim widths, then everything should work as expected. 

Pros
  • This tire is a good climber and has even tread feel
  • Does a great job whether as front or rear tire

Cons
  • Not enough casing integrity
  • Installation is more finicky
  • Sidewalls tend to be balloonish
  • Tread deteriorate faster than expected
 

Schwalbe Hans Damf Snakeskin

Schwalbe Hans Damf Snakeskin
Image Source: www.schwalbetires.com

Schwalbe ‘Hans Dampf ‘s 50 percent bigger and balanced treads, with knobs that are more spaced out offers faster mud clearing and better grip. This tire also provides full control even on rough terrains and on flowing single trails. Its overall durability have greatly improved compared to its predecessors and this translates to longer lifespan. Its new edge blocks were found to be chunkier, with great improvements as well on its outer edge. It does a wonderful job at resisting squirm. What makes this tire standout from its competitors is the inclusion of ADDIX Soft or ADDIX Speedgrip. On the other hand, its ADDIX soft blend provides better grip. The Speedgrip version is the ideal option for those who want to put more traction on the rear wheel. Its Speedgrip formula also makes the tire seriously fast without the need to feel so sketchy. 

Pros
  • Excellent gripping capability
  • Impressive treadwear on sidetrack as compared with other tire brands
  • Good mud shedding capability
  • Provides tight fitting for tubeless

Cons
  • Poor casing

Maxxis Ignitor Mountain Bike Tire

Maxxis Ignitor Mountain Bike Tire
Image source: www.maxxis.com

This tire has already proven its worth by winning multiple World Cup competitions. Maxxis Ignitor Mountain bike tire is indeed one of the most favorites among professional cyclists. This mountain bike road tire has the ability to help cyclists ride to victory and such can be attributed to its well-spaced tread pattern that allows proper filling to avoid the tendency to have high rolling resistance. Its pentagonal knobs provide excellent traction so that there will be no problems when going through corners. It has power gripping capability while also enabling sweeping turns even when running on high speed. It does not emit any noise when being used on pavement. Its knobby tread makes it more likely to just shed off mud to give every rider that speed and performance they need to win.

Pros
  • Enables tubeless conversion
  • Lightweight and durable, with 60 TPI casing
  • With Rubber compound that provides low rolling resistance

Cons
  • May not last too long
  • Suitable for light use on trails

Michelin WildRACE'R Mountain Bike Tire

Michelin WildRACER Mountain Bike Tire
Image Source: bike.michelin.com

Michelin’s WildRACE’r have less pronounced knobs at the center and this will prove to be beneficial for cyclists as this translates to lower rolling resistance. However, these knobs do become taller towards the sidewall and this contributes to a more stable high speed. One can also find some transition knobs in between which have been split for increased flexibility when leaning to turn. WildRACE’rs are undoubtedly fast especially when tackling extreme hardpack and asphalt surfaces. These tires also perform well on rocks, roots and slickrock roads. Its braking and pedaling traction are also very impressive. These tires also offer consistent gripping action on a variety of dry surfaces. 
Its tubeless sealing is also easy while also holding up very well with regard to the general wear and tear. 

Pros
  • Tubeless ready, guarantees better speed and overall ride quality

Cons
  • High price

Buyer's guide for the best mountain bike road tires

Anyone looking to do some bicycle upgrade may also be planning to buy a new set of the best mountain bike road tires. In order to have more chances of purchasing the tire that best suits one’s riding style and preferences, there are some things that must be kept in mind. Some of these are the following: 

Opt for lighter tires.

Some cyclists say the benefits of using the best road tires for mountain bikes that are lightweight are all psychological than physical. This is because the tires only make up a small percentage of the overall weight of the bike. However, components in grams do add up to that weight which means it is better to lower mass in some of the components such as cranks and other rotational components so that bikers do not have to expend more energy to get the bike moving. 

One may consider upgrading the brakes, the whole drivetrain and wheels but nothing gives the most value for the money than a newly upgraded bike tires. This is because the tires are the only ones that literally touch the ground. Therefore, to say that upgrading the tires is of paramount importance would be an understatement. 

Install a new set of road tires for a mountain bike to make it capable of ensuring better puncture protection, reduced weight, lower rolling resistance and improved traction. Unfortunately, bike owners can’t just have everything in one bike tire. One can only have any or some of these benefits but not all. This goes to say that when choosing the type of bike tire to install individuals have to clearly determine which benefit is the most important. 

For example, if an individual needs the mountain bike road tires with taller knobs or the ones with higher overall volume, expect to experience improved traction. Tires with higher overall volume also means they’re heavier thereby increasing rolling resistance as well. On the other hand, lower profile bike tires can be lightweight speedsters so they can guarantee better speed but not the ability to hook up. It may also not offer the level of durability that cyclists may desire. 

Gain more traction or reduce rolling resistance.

Choosing road tires on mountain bike that has greater traction allows cyclists to progress faster. However, if improved speed is needed then one has to be ready to sacrifice a bit of that grip just to gain better rolling efficiency. 

Gaining traction increases confidence but if the aim is to be on top of the XC race podium then sacrificing a bit of grip to ensure better rolling efficiency is highly recommended.

The same thing can also be said with lighter tires. These will not give bikers any trouble scooting up the hills the quickest way they want. However these are the kinds of tires that offer less traction and less protection from punctures. 

One must take into consideration the type of terrain where the riding experience will take place when choosing the type of road tires on a mountain bike to install. After all, that spinning rubber is the one that will have a first-hand experience of how dry, wet or rocky those trails are. What type of tire an individual chooses largely spells the kind of riding experience that one may have. 

How do bikers choose a bike tire that’s perfect for their riding experience?

Individuals who are new to the world of mountain biking should be made aware that they can definitely choose the material design for their tires. 

Some of the best mountain bike road tires have harder knobs and softer knobs on the sides and outer part of it which help guarantee better grip. 

Air Pressure

Air pressure is another important characteristic which may also differ depending on the type of tire that is currently being used. A thicker tire requires lower pressure. So, those who have road tires for a mountain bike that is 2.5 inches or bigger its air pressure must be set between 28 and 30 psi. Bikers may also opt to have different levels of air pressure for the front and back tire. This is because both road tires on mountain bike have different functions. Yes, this is true even when they're both installed on the same bike. The front tires play a crucial role in direction changes and thus it has to have a good grip. This is necessary especially if the road requires tighter turns wherein one has to struggle to stay comfortably on the bike. O the other hand, the rear tire would be responsible for gaining or decreasing speed. The pedaling efforts are mostly transmitted to the rear tire. In other words, the set of tires should possess the capability to help the rider accelerate faster while also maintaining good responsiveness when regulating speed all throughout the cruise. 
 
A semi-sleek back tire coupled with front tire which has larger knobs is what’s ideal in most cases.  Beginners will more likely benefit from having wider tires. 

Bike Size

Determining the tire size may not be easy for some people. Check out its rim or tire sidewall. The first number that is being written refers to its diameter while the second number would mean it’s the tire width. Each tire size may provide a different riding experience. 

The road tires for a mountain bike come in three different diameters and these are 26, 27.5 and 29 inches. Its width also differs from 1.6 to 2.5 inches. Some models are installed with wider tires, with width reaches up to 3 inches. 

Tubeless or Tubed?

Most cyclists prefer to use tubeless tires because these offer lower tire pressures which can be very helpful when running on difficult terrain. A lower tire pressure offers greater comfort amidst difficult paths. 

Thinking about going tubeless? Well, a tubeless tire certainly does not end all flats. But sealant fixes do help fix flats in just a matter of seconds. One advantage of having tubeless tires is that it does not allow one to experience that dreaded pinch flat since there aren’t any tube to pinch. With tubeless tires, it’s going to be a less bouncy ride since cyclists will be riding with a much lower pressure. Besides, it also provides a better feel of that trail while riding on the bike. 

Wider Tires

Wider tires give greater assurance in terms of improved grip and better stability. It can also have disadvantages. Road tires on mountain bike with larger wheelbase will only make the bike lose much of its agility. The good news is that one can always customize the bike according to the type of terrain where the bike will be used. Opt for larger tires if there's a need to go through lots of downhill terrain. 

If one has to ride on a flat terrain and in places where there are shorter downhill sections it is better to choose tires with reduced widths that allows them a limited area of contact with the surface, making the bike more likely to achieve improved speed. It is also important to note that most tires can be unidirectional and this warrants much focus on the part of the cyclist when mounting the bike. For beginners, it would help to try to experience tires with different sizes and widths because this will be the only way that one can figure out which tire suits their preferred riding profile. 
 

General Characteristics

Familiarizing the general characteristics of tires intended for every riding style will also help in choosing the best and most suitable bike to ride.

Cross country tires are fast rolling and lightweight. However, these will offer less grip while the risk of getting punctured is high. 

Trail tires may also provide lower rolling resistance but they can be heavier because of the increased width. Trail tires offer better puncture protection and improved grip because these have taller side knobs. 

Enduro tires have higher rolling resistance but they are the best when it comes to grip and puncture protection. 

Tread Design

Another important part of the tire buying matrix is the tread design. First, keep in mind the three different key zones. These are the center, transition and its side zones which are also referred to as cornering. So, if the bike is rolling on a straight line, which is what usually occurs most of the time, the center zone of the bike tire is the one that is engaged. This the reason why the tread design in this area of the tire is so crucial. The tread design in this area has to ensure good rolling speed, braking performance and straight line traction. 

The road tires for mountain bike that have small and short center knobs which are closely-spaced between each other are ideal for hard pack trail conditions. They are more likely to roll faster however these kinds of tires offer less traction and less efficient braking performance. 

Tires with tall broad knobs that have wide space between each other offer better grip which means improved ability to slow down. However, this tire will give one a hard time rolling faster. This tire suits best for aggressive riding and for loose or soft trail surfaces

The either side of the middle or center thread is what is referred to as the transition zone. This largely affects the leaning behavior of the tire as the bike begins to lean at a certain angle. If this transition zone does not have plenty of tread blocks the tire will become faster. However, it may also make the bike more drifty while the cyclist transitions between the cornering and center zone. This can also help one to speed up faster through corners. However, if the transition zone of the bike has plenty of tread blocks it will have the ability to hook up better without the need to give you that drifting feeling. The only downside to it is that this increased control also entails sacrificing one’s need for speed. 

The cornering zone is responsible for delivering traction when the bike is leaning over and carving through a turn. If the cornering zone has large knobs, it will not have difficulty giving that needed grip but it may also feel a bit squirmy when on hardpack terrain. Conversely, if the conjuring zone has smaller knobs it will tend to roll with more speed on smooth trails but will tend to become more prone to breaking or sliding.  

Seasoned bikers know that it is much better to have rear tires that have lower profile to become faster when going the straight line. This will also greatly help them with cornering speed. When it comes to choosing a front tire they prefer the toothier one for better traction especially when going through the corners. 

Tread Profile Shape

Some people do not have an idea why treads have different shapes? When riding on loose conditions, it is best to opt for tires with square knobs. Rounder knobs will tend to feel more drifty when riding on the same conditions. 

In other words, it is highly advisable to have front and rear tires that have different tread designs. Square tread front tires are better coupled with the drifter knobs on rear tires for faster speed. Notice that the rear wheel has a wider arc compared to its front wheel so it becomes more prone to drifting because it will follow the front tire when going through a turn. Moreover, a rounder profile will help make it easier for the riders to maintain control when drifting. It is also important to remember that widely-spaced knobs are ideal in the mud as it makes shedding of debris a lot faster and easier. 

Can I put road tires for mountain bike 29er?

The term “29er” can bring about lots of confusions especially to newbies in the world of cycling. First and foremost one must remember that a 29er wheel would rely solely on a 700C rim which is 28 inches. So, if someone says “29er road tires for mountain bike” it would mean that a 700C is the one being referred to. The 700c refers to the rim diameter for 29ers and all the other types of road racing bikes. 

And these are exactly the same dimensions on a wide range of bicycles. Moreover, trekking bikes also have the same dimension. Some people may be wondering why it has that extra one inch? Well, it simply represents the difference between the 28 inch rim and the 29 inch tire. This is because mountain bike tires have increased height thus resulting in a 29 inch diameter. 

For those who are wondering whether they can put road tires for mountain bike 29er, be aware first of the differences between a slick and semi-slick mountain bike tire, road tire and trekking tire. These tires differ in height and their balloon. Road tires and trekking tires are shorter in height which means this would be an issue if these tires are being put on a pair of mountain bike wheels. Note that the rim of a mountain bike is wider. So, before the start of the installation process one has to identify first whether the mountain bike rim possesses the right inner width which must be within the range of 19-24mm. This measurement is an important guideline to adhere to lest the 29er road tires for mountain bike wouldn’t fit or would come off the wheels. 

Why do people prefer to mount trekking or road tires for 29er mountain bike? One primary reason for this is to improve rolling speed. This is when the use of slick and semi-slick tires would prove to be more helpful. Besides, installing slick or semi-slick tires would also spare a biker from the hassle of measuring and checking if everything fits together. In addition, these slick and semi-slick tires are also found to have bigger balloon which translates to more comfort. 

The price may also be a consideration. A dedicated slick 29er road tires for mountain bike tire that has a special type of compound may cost more than if one will just opt for a trekking tire. However, the hefty price of a slick tire will prove to be worth it and an individual will feel this right from the first time they mount the slick tire on the mountain bike. It will not take long for a biker to notice the advantage in terms of rolling resistance. Although it would be hard to compare the speed of a real road bike but using a slick tire on a mountain bike will give the person the chance to improve riding speed significantly. Another obvious advantage would be the level of maneuverability. If its balloon is large enough one will also feel extra comfort. 

Once confirmed that they’re compatible in diameter, make sure that the tire width matches the rim width. Generally, a road tire measurement will usually be within the range of 23mm- 28mm wide. To ensure good support and optimal functioning, the rim where the tire is going to be mounted must also fall exactly within the 23mm-28mm range. Choosing one that’s too narrow will only make the tire roll as it also squirms when riding through the corners. On the other hand, if a wider rim is chosen the height of the casing will also become too low relative to its rim walls. This increases the risk of tire blow offs and pinched flat issues. Poor fitting of road tires for 29er and its rim will also increase the likelihood of rim damage. 

For best fitting, choose a rim that is within the 19mm to 24mm width range. Anything below or above this range would not ensure perfect fit at all. If the bike has a 23.5mm wide rim chances are it would work well with road tires within the 23mm to 28mm range. If the bike has a wider 29er rim, then a wider tire have to be installed as well. 

How To Convert Mountain Bike For The Road

Suspension

Mountain bikes are built with suspensions designed to work well on roots, terrain and rocks.  These mountain bikes have to be equipped with amazing suspensions to ensure the best riding experience off-road. However, in the event that it will be used on tarmac roads this kind of suspension would no longer be necessary. If the bike possesses a lockout a little adjustment will do so that the person can use the bike on the tarmac with much ease and comfort. If the bike does not have a lockout then it would be necessary to increase the air pressure in the suspension for it to become stiffer. This must be done to reduce bobbing tendency while the biker is pedaling, standing to climb or sprinting. 

What is a lockout?

A lockout refers to that lever or switch found on one of the tubes in the mountain bike fork. Once this lockout is turned the fork becomes rigid. Furthermore, there are also forks with remote lockout wherein the lever can be found on the handlebar so the biker will not have to reach down when trying to adjust the fork. A cable is connected between the handlebar lever and the switch of the actual lockout which is placed on top of the fork tube. 

Why is it important to have a rigid fork?

A rigid fork is important when riding on even terrain. Without the suspension lockout, the cyclist would have to get up from the bike saddle to be able to push on the pedals using his own weight. A regular suspension fork allows each pedaling effort to be dissipated into the fork itself. So, instead of channeling each pedaling effort onto the pedals for increasing the distance covered, each pedaling energy that the cyclist exerts will only be wasted. This is because the cyclist will only be letting the fork to just glide back and forth with each push that one exerts on the pedal. 

If the bike has a suspension lockout then it will surely have a rigid fork which guarantees that each pedaling being exerted will be converted into distance traveled. Once the suspension is locked out the cyclist will less likely bounce while riding off the saddle. The result would be a more efficient pedaling and more distance traveled as well. 

Tires And Wheels

To make the process of changing mountain bike tires to road tires easier, just pump up the tires to 40-50 psi. Do not forget to check first the maximum psi on the sidewall of the tire before starting the inflating process. By pumping up its psi, the tires will roll quicker and would feel more comfortable even when the cyclist will be standing up. Some pros would prefer to bring slick tires with them whenever they plan to go for longer trips. This way, they can still do some road training. They will have these tires mounted on their spare wheels. Others would have them installed on off-road wheels. Opt for a 1.5 inch slick tires and make sure it fits the size of the wheels. This will not be too difficult to find given the fact that gravel-riding and 29er wheels are becoming so common these days. If the  budget allows, one can purchase a separate set of wheels. This way, one will be able to save time since he will not be changing mountain bike tires to road tires. Most of all, always remember to update what’s in the emergency kit. See to it that it has all the appropriate tools for the size of the tire that the bike has. 

What are slick bike tires?

Slick bike tires are built for the road. These are common among bikes meant for touring, commuting and city riding experiences. Mountain bikes can also have slick tires. These are the kind of tires that look smooth that one can hardly see any tread pattern. These slick tires are designed with slickrock, groomed single track and asphalt surfaces in mind. Some slick tires have Vaped grooves that make the tire work well when cornering on wet roads. 

Gearing

One advantage of having a separate set of wheels is that it will also make it easier for cyclists to use a different cassette or rear gears when going through the process of changing mountain bike tires to road tires. Road bikes usually have more gears in a close range. This way, making adjustments like changing the cadence in smaller increments could be done with much ease. Mountain bikes are equipped with gears that allow it to accommodate lower average speeds and steep climbs. So, when using it on the road it has to be pedaled quickly once the cyclist notices the speed comes up. There are many mountain bikes these days that are equipped with only a single chainring which means that it is easier now to switch to a larger chainring or even another set of crankset to get the best mountain bike tires for road use. When in doubt, it is always best to inquire from a local mechanic for any possible options that bikers have if they plan about changing from mountain bike to road tires. However, if making changes to the gearings is not possible, one can always opt for high cadence work as a training stimulus. 

Position 

When changing mountain bike to road tires, one also needs to do some minor position changes. Generally, mountain bikers are more comfortable with higher bars to aid them in handling different surfaces. For example, bikers would prefer to slightly drop the handlebar a little lower for aerodynamic purposes. However, bikers have to be careful about adapting to this position. This is because even if these changes may seem small, such would already change the amount of pressure that is placed on the hands. Others even find such change to cause more saddle pressure while they hinge forward. Adding a drop handlebar like the ones being used on road bikes, is also possible. Add this to the bike frame for a more permanent change. A lot of mountain bikers add drop handlebar to ensure it becomes a reliable gravel grinder.

How to Convert a Road Bike into a Cyclocross Bike

Thinking about converting road tires for cyclocross bike? Then, here are some tips on how to make this possible:

Consider changing the tires. 

Using road tires for cyclocross bike will not guarantee optimal performance. If the current road bike already has enough clearance for fitting wider tires, it is best to consider getting a Bontrager tire which is known to suit almost any type of cross conditions. It has medium knobs that provide good traction when cornering in the mud and when riding on loose conditions. Its knobs also enable adequate rolling on pavements. 

Do a pedal switch.

Set aside those clunky road pedals and cleats when looking to go on a cyclocross adventure. Otherwise the bike will only be collecting too much debris making it too difficult for the rider to speed up. One highly recommended replacement for the current pedals would be the Crank Bros Candy 1 pedals that are designed for mountain bikes. These pedals provide quick engagement and do not collect too much mud. These Crank Bros pedals are also wide thereby giving the biker’s feet enough platform for support and comfort. 

Do not forget to remove the bottle cage.

Perhaps this is the only tip here that does not require a single cent. When going for a cyclocross riding experience, there will be times when cyclists have to dismount while hoisting the bike on top of their shoulders as they run. If the bottle cage stays on the bike, then hoisting the bike on top of the shoulders would feel so painful and so uncomfortable. Besides, cyclists going on a cyclocross adventure will not have enough time to stop for some thirst quenching activity. Remove those bottle cages so that the bike will feel lighter and easier to hoist on the shoulder. 

Make some saddle and handlebar tweaks.

Another way to ensure that one is going to have a comfortable riding experience on cyclocross courses is to raise the handlebars a bit, probably about one half inch. Then raise the saddle about half an inch too. This gives the rider a more upright position. However, this one half inch may vary depending on what’s comfortable for the cyclist. Go on a test ride first before finalizing those tweaks that were done for road bike cyclocross tires.

Reinforce the bar tape.

Cyclocross courses can be too rough and dirty and this also makes any cyclist feel uncomfortable and unsafe. To add comfort, add more bar tape and make it thicker. Make sure as well to opt for a thick bar tape that provides better grip even when riding on grimy and wet conditions. By having thick bar tapes an individual will less likely to lose confidence knowing that his hands are able to grip that bar so well. 

Guide to Bike Tire Sizes

Understanding Traditional Sizing Systems

Knowing what size perfectly fits the bike can be challenging especially if an individual is faced with an option of bike tires made from other manufacturers. This is when people, especially those who love to bike, have to understand the concept of traditional sizing systems which is done according to the size of the outside of the diameter of the tire, which is then written as diameter x width. Unfortunately, the problem is that with the evolution of tire manufacturing, this sizing system does not give one hundred percent guarantee of a perfect fit. One reason for this is the fact that manufacturers adhere to their own sizing standard which means it will only be applicable to their own line of tires. As a result, buying a tire that has exactly the same size with the rim that one currently owns may be difficult not unless the same brand will be purchased for replacement. So, to put an end to this dilemma, the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) came up with a system that provides solution to the tire measurement issue. The new batch of tires released in the market these days already indicate the ISO measurement which can be seen on the sides of the tire itself. The ISO tire size measurement will be shown as width x diameter.

Determining the Tire Diameter

When determining tire size, an individual should first identify the diameter and then the width. Note that the actual diameter size of each tire may vary according to its tread pattern. This goes to say that the BDS or bead seat diameter of the tire will be measured based on the inner diameter of the tire. Check on the sidewall of the tire and see the two numbers that are separated by the “x” symbol. For example, if the numbers shown will look like this: 26 x 2.10 or 700 x 23, remember that the larger number will serve as the BDS, which may be shown either in the form of mm or inches. On the other hand, the smaller number would indicate the tire width. The larger the tire width, the more contact surface the bike has on the road and this spells comfort and stability for cyclists. On the other hand, the smaller the tire width is,  would also mean lesser rolling resistance a.k.a. friction and this spells better speed for bikers. Generally, road bike tires come in three widths: 23c, 25c, and 28c However, do not be confused with that letter “c” after the number. It does not represent the word “centimeter” because tire width will always be measured in millimeters. This letter “c” originally comes from the old French system of classifying tire sizes where the letters a, b, and c represent different inner tire diameters. 

When determining the perfect width for the bike, there are two important factors to keep in mind. First, try to check if the width will fit the wheels and the bike. Second, bike owners should consider their own riding style. Once these two factors have been accounted for then the next thing to do is to find out which size provides the best level of comfort and speed. Most riders find 25mm tire width as most comfortable. Cyclists riding on rough roads may find the 28mm tire width as the most comfortable. 

As a matter of fact, determining the size of the tire is just so easy to do. Just look at what’s shown on the tire sidewall. In the event when one can no longer find the old tire then determining the size of the tire may be an issue. In this case, bike owners would have to ask for help from a bike shop staff in their locality. 

What is a Tubular Tire?

A tubular tire is a popular type of tire mostly preferred by cyclists who are into cyclo-cross racing, indoor track racing, road time trials and road racing. It is a type of bike tire that is stitched around the inner tube. 

The tire and inner tube are then glued together onto a specially designed rim. Tubular road bike tires are popularly used for professional road racing, cyclo-cross racing, indoor track racing and road time trials.

tubular road bike tires CLINCHER TUBELESS TUBULAR TI re Tire Tire Air Air Air Tire Bead Rim Rim Rim Valve Valve

One advantage of tubular road bike tires is its safety. If it goes flat or even when it’s running on low pressure it is less likely to pull away from the rim. It also does not jam the wheel nor cause a crash like clincher tires do. Using tubular tires assures cyclists that they can still ride slowly until they can find a safe area to stop.  It can definitely be used with lower pressures for improved traction and a smoother ride. 

The second advantage that tubular tires have over clincher tires is its weight. The total weight of a tubular tire, together with its rim is still lighter compared to clincher tires. So, if one needs to go racing while also bringing with him a spare tire he can certainly do so without having to worry much about the added weight. The best tubular tires for road bike also enable rotational inertia which can be beneficial when the need for speed occurs. 

A tubular tire gives cyclocross racers a bigger advantage because if it’s glued properly, the cyclist can use it with lower pressure without the need to worry about seeing a peeled-off tire. Besides, a tubular tire is also less likely to go pinched flat. This is one reason why such tire is capable of functioning well no matter what range of pressure it has. 

Its ability to guarantee safety even when it’s flat and running on low pressure  can be attributed to its physical structure which is a closed system wherein the air simply escapes far more slowly as opposed to what happens when a clincher tire goes suddenly pinched flat at high speed. 

As for the price a tubular tire is no doubt more expensive. One reason why it’s pricey is the addition of a tube. Besides, it is also more labor intensive to manufacture compared to a clincher tire. 

However, if those tubular tires on a road bike gets punctured, be prepared for a really challenging task of changing it. Fortunately, with the advancements in products like adhesives and tapes the task of changing a punctured tubular tire may no longer be as difficult as it was before. This allows the cyclist to still get to the finishing line slowly while the tire remains stuck to the rim. On the contrary, if a clincher tire is being used and it  becomes punctured suddenly, that cyclist’s race is over. One can’t just rush the process of changing a puncture clincher tire because it will increase the tendency of the tube to become pinched, accidentally ending the race for that bike owner.  

However, tubular tires are not without disadvantages. A tubular tire is not ideal for faster descents because the heat that the tire generates when braking can lead it to explode. 

The Best Tubular Tire Reviews

Vittoria Rally Tubular Tire

Although Vittoria is still new to the world of tubular tire market it never failed to prove that it is capable of competing with other giant tire companies. For cyclists wanting to achieve high performance while on the road, Vittoria will help them guarantee that. 

This tire is equipped with Kevlar 3D compound which helps guarantee optimal acceleration coupled with an excellent stopping power. The 3D Kevlar compound of this tire has been molded into a herringbone file pattern, making it so much capable of rolling smoothly due to its solid grip and improved traction. Its 220 TPI casing provides a traditional look and one may opt for that all-black or para finish, whatever best suits his preferences. 

With Vittoria Rally Tubular Tire, an individual will have the kind of tire equipped with PRB breaker below its surface. It's durability can also be attributed to its puncture resistant tread. Vittoria Rally Tubular Tire comes in 21mm or 23mm width.

Tufo S33 Pro Tubular Tire

Topping the list of the best tubular tire is the Tufo 700 x 24 Tufo S33 Pro which has a fine tread pattern that improves rolling resistance and riding quality with its carbon black tread compound. Its total weight is 310 grams and tire pressure that’s within the 90-115 psi range for optimum riding experience. This tire is 24 mm in width, fit for size 28 rims.

Schwalbe One HT Black Tubular Tire

This tubular tire has earned a reputation for being one of the best tires in terms of rolling resistance and overall performance. Its fine diamond tread pattern provides excellent grip which adds to its safety and comfort in unpredictable weather and quick changes in road surfaces. If an individual is into professional racing, he can also rely on this tire as it offers great speed due to its low rolling resistance. 
Another factor that makes the Schwalbe One HT popular is the OneStar Triple Compound. The carcass mixture made from cotton and polyester offers high pinch flat protection as well as low rolling resistance.

These tubular road bike tires are also equipped with RaceGuard belt which is great especially for cyclists who are also into racing. This RaceGuard is a synthesis of several different layers that consist of special India rubber and nylon fabric that provides extra protection from punctures. This tire weighs 260 grams.

Continental Sprinter Tubular Road Tire 

These tubular tires road bike makes use of ASC Silica technology that guarantees lower rolling resistance and this translates to improved speed. This tire is also known to provide excellent cornering ability. 

The best thing about this tubular tire is its four layers of polyamide casing that improves puncture resistance  and longevity. 

These tubular road bike tires can also be used for serious racing because it’s lightweight. It’s durability also makes this tire ideal for training. It is also designed with anti-puncture breaker belt that is designed with Safety System technology which provides better protection against punctures.

This tire also has optimized tread compound which adds to its durability, making it such a wise investment since bikers do not have to spend for tire replacement too soon. Continental tires make use of Duraskin side wall protection that enables cyclists to continue riding amidst worst conditions. 

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