Tire size has a great effect on your bicycle's handling. Understanding how variations in tire size affect the ride quality of a bicycle will help you choose the right tire so that your workouts are more efficient and enjoyable. And since a given bicycle is only compatible with a narrow range of tire sizes, it is important to consider your size options prior to purchasing your bicycle.
Features
Two dimensions are important when comparing bicycle tire sizes--the diameter and the width. These measurements are represented using both metric and standard measurement systems. Mountain bikes usually employ the standard system, while road bikes use the metric system. The two measurements are represented in this manner: 700x23, with the first number representing the diameter and the second the width. However, these measurements are only nominal; if you actually measure them, you may get a somewhat different value. When purchasing new tires, you have some leeway in regards to choosing a different width, but different diameter tires are not interchangeable. In other words, if your mountain bike came with 26x2.0 size tires, you can probably go up to a 26x2.2 size tire, but a 29x2.0 will not fit into the frame.
Mountain Bike Tire Diameters
One of the latest trends in the mountain bike industry is the use of 29-inch diameter tires in place of the more traditional 26-inch tire. Although 29-inch tires are heavier than their smaller counterparts, proponents argue that this disadvantage is offset by increased traction and improved ability to roll over trail obstacles. Although the 29-inch trend is growing in popularity, 26 inches remains the standard and there are more tire options in that size.
Mountain Bike Tire Widths
The width of a mountain bike tire influences the traction and cushioning abilities of the tire. Wider tires generally offer greater traction and a suppler ride than narrow tires. On the other hand, narrow tires are lighter weight and typically have lower rolling resistance. To determine the proper width for you, examine the type of riding you usually engage in. If you race or ride on mostly smooth terrain, a narrow tire may be the best choice. If you frequently tackle very rough and steep trails, you would probably derive greater benefit from a wider tire. Keep in mind, though, that some mountain bike frames do not have sufficient frame clearance to accept very wide tires. Mountain bike tires generally range from 1.8 to 3 inches in width.
Road Bike Tires
There is less variability among road bike tires. Nearly all road bike tires are of the nominal 700mm diameter with widths ranging from 18 to 28mm. As with mountain bike tires, the wider widths generally provide greater cushioning and stability, while the narrower ones are lighter and faster.
Rim Considerations
If you decide to purchase a tire of a different width than the width that came installed on your bike, make sure that the width of the rim is appropriate for the width of the new tire you have chosen. Installing a wide tire on a narrow rim can cause unstable steering due to the flexing of the tire. Conversely, installing a narrow tire on a standard rim can cause flat tires and rim damage because there is not enough tire to protect the rim.
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