How Road Bike Tires Are Constructed

Road bikes gained popularity in Europe, but with the success of American
Lance Armstrong road bikes have become a common item in the US also.
Speed, speed, speed and not necessarily comfort are where these bikes
excel. The rider is bent over to reach the handlebars providing an
aerodynamic profile . This position also allows for the greatest use
of the power source namely the riders legs. The bike has no suspension
and rides along on concrete or asphalt. The tire is super thin and
under great pressure and it is the only thing that separates the rider
from the hard and rough riding surface.



It is not surprising then that road bike tires are a very big business,
including research and development, construction and design . The
rubber may very well be the most important part of the tire. It is
manufactured for the proper texture, firmness and consistency. Starting
with the rubber helps ensure the best product for the rider.



Road bike tires have dual construction that means an inner layer and an
outer layer. The inner layer consists of nylon-fibers counted as
threads per square inch or TSI. As you might expect the more the count
the lighter the tires is, unfortunately as the TSI increases so does the
cost. However, not so with the durability, it will decrease with the
increase fiber count (TSI).



The outer layer is the covering and typically these tires have no tread.
That is they are slick. There are several reasons for this, one tread
increases rolling resistance and thereby slows your speed. Also tread
is not needed if the race is on concrete or pavement as is often the
case. There is nothing to be gained and actually something significant
to lose when adding tread. It does not enhance traction but it does
increase rolling resistance and therefore reduces speed.



Road bike tires are available in what is known as clinchers and tubular.
Basically clinchers have both a tube and a tire and tubulars do not.
How they adhere to the rim is also different. There is also a choice
on valves, Presta versus Schrader. Likewise both have advantages which
will be discussed at another time.



Now a quick mention of tubular tires since they are used most often by
professional riders in races. The tire is lighter and adheres to the
rim with glue. Generally speaking the flats are quicker to change and
may lose air more slowly allowing for a controlled stop.



No matter which style you choose these tires come in the standard sizes
for your bike. The sizes are metric sizes with the diameter equaling
700mm. Some companies still make 27 inch tires to use on older models
although your favorite tire, the one you have used for years may be
difficult to obtain. You may opt for a smaller diameter tire on your
front wheel to help with aerodynamics. Those are also available. The
most common width for road bike tires is 23, 25 and 28 mm with 28 being
the most frequently ordered .



Getting a flat is no fun, it takes away from your primary purpose and
that is riding. It may leave you stranded miles from help. To prevent
this you can use liners, puncture resistant tires, a sealant or some
sort of foam insulation. For those riding with a chase vehicle this is
not a concern. However for the weekend rider one of the above options
may be well worth some research .



The prevalence of online bike supply sites makes it easier to research
and select the road bike tire that is right for you. Be forewarned
though some sites will be a better match for you than others, Seek out
professional riders or those with lots of experience so you are assured
of the right product for you, because it is unlikely they will allow
returns on a tire that has been ridden for a day.



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