How to Compare Bike Tires

Bicycle tires are a very critical part of your bike system. They are the one part that makes contact with the ground and are essential to both safety and performance. The size of the tire, the composition of the rubber, the tread design and the tire's width are only some of the factors to consider when shopping for new bike tires. Taking time to learn some basic bicycle tire facts will help you compare one tire to another in deciding which model best fits your individual cycling needs and interests.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the tire to see what kind of fabric is interwoven into its rubber. The material often is listed on the side of the tire. Some higher-end tires are made with a Kevlar woven into the rubber. Kevlar is a very light material that helps reduce the weight of the tire and deters punctures.

    • 2

      Compare the tread of the tires you are considering. The tread is the knobby or patterned portion of the tire that provides added grip and stability when riding. In general, the tread will enhance traction and provide a safer ride if it is softer. However, a softer tread also will wear down sooner and you will have to buy another set of tires.

    • 3

      Determine whether you are looking for tubular tires or clincher (traditional) tires. Tubular tires don't have beads and are held onto special rims using glue. The benefits of tubular tires are that the tires as well as the required rims are slightly lighter than traditional tires. In addition, many riders report that tubular tires provide a more comfortable ride. The drawbacks to these tires are that they are far more expensive than clincher tires. In addition, tubulars are so hard to repair once they are punctured, most riders opt to buy a new tire instead.

    • 4

      Measure the width of the tires manually using a tape measure or other measuring device. Bike manufacturers are known for not having the correct width printed on the tire, so you are best to not trust this number. Determine the width you desire and then measure the tires you are looking at to make sure the width is accurate.