Different types of bike tires can be used to enhance the quality of your ride, or even allow you to cycle with less effort. Mountain bike tires offer stability and traction on off-road trails, while road bike tires reduce friction and maximize speed over smooth surfaces like asphalt. As you compare different types of tires for your bike, consider things like tread, maintenance and puncture resistance to find the right model to meet your needs.
Road Bike Tires
Road bike tires are designed to maximize performance on roads and other smooth surfaces. They feature little to no tread, and are often referred to as "slicks" due to their untextured surface. These tires tend to be the thinnest of all bike tires, which minimizes friction and allow riders to pedal efficiently, according to REI. Road tires designed for touring or commuting are slightly wider, on average, to balance stability and speed.
On more aggressive terrain, riders may choose "semi-slick" road bike tires, which feature a smooth bottom and textured sides. The semi-slick design allows for easier and more stable turns and cornering without slowing the rider down.
Mountain Bike Tires
Mountain bike tires feature a highly textured, knobby tread design. The treads on these tires increase the rider's stability over loose dirt, rocks and other off-road surfaces. When mountain bike tires are used on the road however, they will generally slow the rider down and increase the effort needed to pedal effectively. According to REI, tires with small knobs provide traction while also allowing the rider to maximize speed. Taller knobs provide a better grip over rough terrain, like large rocks or tree roots. If you plan to ride in mud, pick tires with widely spaced knobs so the mud is able to fly off the tire, not build up within the treads.
Inverted-Tread Tires
Tires with inverted treads offer a balance between road and mountain bike tire design. The inverted tread provides some texture and stability, but allows the rider to maintain speed. This type of tire is primarily chosen for rides on basic mountain trails or rough, bumpy roads.
Types of Tire Construction
All bike tires feature either a clincher or tubular construction design, regardless of tread. According to the Schwalbe Tire Co., clincher designs are the most widely used standard on today's bikes. The tire is built around a wire bead made from steel, nylon or Kevlar. This bead acts as a frame for the tire, and makes it easy to fit the tire onto most rims.
Tubular construction features an air-filled tube sewn directly into the rubber tire. Installers use glue to fit the tire to the rim. According to the Schwalbe Tire Co., tubular tires tend to cost more and are more difficult to install, but also offer a higher level of puncture-resistance.
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