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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