The Right Tires for Every Ride
We understand that choosing tires can be overwhelming with all the variety of sizes, types, and brands available. Tires impact your bike’s speed, grip, and comfort, and they’re the first point of contact between you and the terrain. That's why Landry's is here to guide you every step of the way. Our staff members ride the same trails and roads as you do, so you can trust us to help you make the best choice for a smoother, safer ride.
Check out our guide to selecting the right bike tires below, and stop by for a Landry's guide to help you get rolling!
Bicycle Tire Basics
When to Replace Your Bike Tires
Knowing when to replace your bike tires keeps your ride safe and smooth. Here are some signs it’s time for new tires:
- Worn Tread: The tread is smooth or uneven, which can reduce grip, especially in wet conditions.
- Visible Casing or Threads: If you see the tire’s inner fabric or threads, the tire is worn out and needs replacement.
- Cracks or Dry Rot: Cracks on the sidewalls or surface indicate that the rubber is breaking down.
- Frequent Flats: If you’re dealing with repeated punctures, especially in the same area, it may mean the tire is thinning and more vulnerable to punctures.
If you’re unsure, bring your bike into Landry’s, and we’ll inspect your tires to help you decide.
Tube Types: Presta vs. Schrader
Choosing the right tube type also means understanding valve options. Here’s what you need to know about the two main types:
Presta Valves
- Appearance: Narrow, with a small top nut that must be loosened to inflate.
- Commonly Found On: Road, gravel, and mountain bikes.
Schrader Valves
- Appearance: Wider with a flat top, similar to car tire valves.
- Commonly Found On: Hybrid, commuter, and some mountain bikes.
Tubed vs. Tubeless
Tubed Tires
- How They Work: Tubed tires have an inner tube that inflates to provide support and cushioning. They’re easy to install and repair, making them a popular choice for recreational riders.
- Best For: Road bikes, commuters, and hybrid riders who prioritize simplicity and ease of maintenance.
- Pros: Affordable, widely compatible, and quick to repair with a spare tube.
- Cons: More prone to pinch flats and punctures, especially on rougher terrain.
Tubeless Tires
- How They Work: Tubeless tires don’t use an inner tube. Instead, the tire itself seals to the rim, and liquid sealant is used to patch small punctures instantly.
- Best For: Mountain and gravel bikers, as well as performance-focused road riders looking for added grip and durability on varied terrain.
- Pros: Fewer flats, lower air pressure for better grip, and smoother ride on rough terrain.
- Cons: Higher initial setup cost and more complex installation process.
Choosing between tubed and tubeless tires depends on your riding style, preferences, and the terrain you typically ride on. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the difference:
Tires For Every Bike
Road Bike Tires
Common Sizes and Widths: Road bike tires are typically 700c in diameter, with widths ranging from 23mm to 35mm. Narrower widths (23-25mm) are common for racing, while wider options (28-35mm) offer more comfort and stability for endurance rides.
Tire Styles:
- Racing Slicks: Thin and lightweight, racing tires have a slick or minimal tread pattern for reduced rolling resistance and increased speed. These tires are ideal for paved surfaces and prioritize speed over comfort.
- Endurance Tires: With a slightly wider width and increased durability, endurance tires balance speed and comfort, offering a bit more shock absorption and grip.
- All-Weather Tires: Designed with enhanced grip and durability, these tires are built to handle wet roads, rough surfaces, and the occasional pothole.
Gravel Bike Tires
Common Sizes and Widths: Gravel tires generally range from 650b to 700c in diameter, with widths from 35mm to 50mm. Wider tires (45-50mm) provide better stability and comfort on rough terrain, while narrower options (35-40mm) offer a faster ride on smoother gravel.
Tire Styles:
- All-Rounder Tires: These feature moderate tread patterns, providing balance between grip and speed on mixed surfaces. Ideal for riders tackling both pavement and gravel roads.
- Aggressive Tread Tires: Knobby and wide, these tires offer excellent grip for loose, challenging terrain. They’re ideal for routes that include rougher, less maintained paths.
- File Tread Tires: With minimal tread in the center and more on the sides, file tread tires deliver a smooth, efficient roll on compact gravel while maintaining cornering grip.
Mountain Bike Tires
Common Sizes and Widths: Mountain bike tires typically come in 26", 27.5” or 29” diameters, with the most common widths ranging from 2.0” to 2.6” for cross-country and 2.3” to 3.0” for trail and enduro riding. Narrower, lighter tires are popular for cross-country, while wider tires are ideal for enhancing grip on technical trails.
Tire Styles:
- Cross-Country (XC) Tires: Lightweight with low-profile tread, XC tires prioritize speed and efficiency. They work best on packed trails but offer less grip on loose terrain.
- Trail/All-Mountain Tires: With moderate to aggressive tread, trail tires provide excellent traction and control over varied terrain, making them ideal for technical trails.
- Enduro/DH Tires: Built for rugged, downhill terrain, these tires are durable, wide, and heavy, with deep, aggressive knobs for maximum grip on loose surfaces.
Hybrid Bike Tires
Common Sizes and Widths: Hybrid tires are often 700c in diameter, but also can come in 26" or 650B with widths between 32mm and 45mm. They balance the speed of road tires with the durability and stability of wider tires.
Tire Styles:
- Smooth or Semi-Slick Tires: Ideal for riders spending most of their time on pavement, these tires have minimal tread for a faster, quieter ride.
- Mixed Surface Tires: With a bit more tread, these tires offer extra grip and stability on light off-road surfaces, like gravel or dirt paths, while still performing well on pavement.
Commuter Bike Tires
Common Sizes and Widths: Commuter tires typically range from 26” to 700c in diameter, with widths from 32mm to 45mm. Wider tires offer better durability and comfort on rougher urban roads.
Tire Styles:
- Puncture-Resistant Tires: These tires come with reinforced layers that protect against glass, nails, and other road debris, ensuring you spend less time fixing flats.
- Reflective Sidewalls: Many commuter tires feature reflective strips on the sidewalls to improve visibility in low light, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Grip-Focused Treads: Built for wet conditions and urban surfaces, these treads provide extra grip for cornering on wet, slippery roads.
Flats Happen, Be Prepared
Quick Tips: What to Bring on Your Ride
Be prepared for any situation by bringing a few essentials to handle a flat or tire issue while on the road or trail:
- Spare Tube or Patch Kit: A replacement tube (ensure it’s the right size for your tires) or a patch kit for quick repairs.
- Tire Levers: These help you remove the tire from the rim, making it easier to replace or patch a tube.
- Mini Pump or CO2 Inflator: A mini pump works for any tube type and is reusable, while CO2 inflators offer quick inflation but need extra cartridges.
- Multi-Tool: Look for one with the essentials, including hex keys and a valve core remover for tubeless setups.
These essentials can help you get back on the road or trail quickly, avoiding any disruptions in your ride.
Shop Bicycle Tires
Ready to Roll?
Visit Landry’s for Expert Tire Advice
Choosing the right tires can elevate your ride. Stop by Landry’s Bicycles to find the perfect set for your bike, get expert advice, and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable ride. Our team is here to help you find the best fit so you can roll with confidence.