What To Look For
Tire companies manufacture several styles and designs of road bicycle tires. The most common sizes of road tires, 700x23c and 700x25c, measure only 23 mm and 25 mm wide, respectively. According to bicycle mechanic Sheldon Brown, the best road bicycle tires have no tread. Often cyclists prefer the lightest and strongest tire affordable. Many cyclists use tubular, traditional glue on tires, though typically, most cyclists use clincher tire and rim combinations with separate inner tubes. Many high-quality bicycle tires weigh little while still offering superior protection against flats.
Common Pitfalls
Many cyclists believe smooth road bicycle tires will hydroplane with no tread pattern whatsoever. Tire manufacturer Michelin states road bicycles would require speeds in excess of 120 mph to experience hydroplaning. Many companies provide minimal treads for increased riding comfort or odd riding situations, such as muddy cobblestones. Don't believe folding bead tires to be of higher quality than comparable non-folding wire bead tires. Two similar tires with differing beads may offer no difference other than a marginal weight disparity. Folding beads often save several grams over wire beads.
Where To Buy
Many local bicycle shops, department stores and online bicycle tire retailers sell road bicycle tires. Big-box stores often offer low-quality tires compared to other retailers. Bicycle shops often stock several varieties of road bicycle tires for a variety of intended purposes. Many shops stock tires specifically designed for road racing, cycle touring and commuting. Many shops provide inexpensive tires for casual riders as well. Often local bicycle shops install road bicycle tires and tubes for a set labor fee. Ensure frames will accept larger tires if desiring the increased comfort larger air volumes provide.
Cost
Inexpensive road bicycle tires may sell as low as $10 a tire. Quality road bicycle tires often cost $15 to $30 per tire. Tires offering increased flat protection and more resilient rubber compounds often retail from $30 to $50 a tire. Folding tires offering similar advancements often cost $40 to $60 per tire. High quality racing tires offering the lightest weights, low rolling resistance and improved flat protection often cost $60 to $100 per tire. Tubular manufacturers offer training tires for under $50, racing tires under $70 and flat resistant tires under $100.
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