MTB tubes and bicycle tires

Choosing the right mountain bike (MTB) tires and tubes is critical to optimizing your bike's performance and ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.

Different terrains and driving styles require different tires. Common tire types include cross-country (XC), trail, enduro, downhill and all-mountain. Their size is usually expressed as, for example, 27.5 x 2.3 or 29 x 2.6, where the first number represents the diameter of the tire and the second number represents the width of the tire in inches. Wider tires provide more stability and grip, while narrower tires are lighter and faster.

The tread pattern of the tire is critical for traction and handling. The tread pattern ranges from bumpy and aggressive for muddy and technical terrain, to smoother and faster rolling for dry and hard surfaces.

When choosing a tire, consider whether you want to use tubeless or inner tubes. Tubeless tires offer better puncture resistance and can be used at lower pressures, which improves grip. Inner tubes are easier to install and maintain, but can be more prone to punctures.

Some tires are equipped with additional sidewall protection layers (e.g. EXO, Snakeskin) that reduce the risk of being punctured by sharp stones and debris. This can be beneficial for an aggressive driving style.

Different tires use different rubber compounds that affect grip and durability. Softer compounds offer better grip but wear faster, while harder compounds last longer but may not provide the same level of grip. Choose a mixture that suits your driving style and conditions.

If you opt for inner tubes, make sure you select the appropriate tube size and valve type (Schrader or Presta) that match the rim size.

What are the basic types of mountain bike tires?

Cross-country (XC) tires: Designed for speed and efficiency on hard and smoother trails. Usually have low-profile, closely spaced spikes for minimal rolling resistance, allowing high speed to be maintained. XC tires are lighter, which helps with climbing and acceleration.
Trail tires: Balance between rolling resistance, grip, and durability. Versatile and suitable for a wide range of terrains including hard tracks, loose terrain and rocky sections. Slightly more aggressive pattern compared to XC tires, with larger and widely spaced spikes for better traction.
Enduro tires: Designed for aggressive driving in technical terrain. Larger, deeper and more widely spaced spikes for better grip and control. Excel in loose, muddy or rocky conditions and provide excellent traction and stability during sharp descents and cornering.
Downhill (DH) tires: Designed for downhill racing and driving in extremely rough and demanding terrain. The most aggressive pattern with tall, widely spaced spikes for maximum traction and control. Often have reinforced casings to withstand the bumps and punctures that occur when riding downhill.
Wide tires: Plus size tires have a width between standard mountain bike tires and FAT bike tires, usually from 2.6 to 3.0 inches. Compared to narrower tires, they offer better traction, stability, and comfort. Plus size tires are popular with riders who want better grip and control without the extreme tire width of FAT bikes.

When choosing a type of mountain bike tire, consider your riding style, preferred terrain and specific needs.

How to choose the right tire size for a mountain bike?

Check your bike's specs: The easiest way to determine the right mountain bike tire size is to look at your bike's specs. You can typically find this information on the manufacturer's website or in the owner's manual. Look for the recommended tire size, which is typically given in inches.
Consider the width of the tires: In addition to the size of the wheel, you must also consider the width of the tires. Tire width is frequently measured in inches or millimetres. Common mountain bike tire widths range from 1.9 to 2.6 inches, with wider options available for specific riding styles. Narrower tires are generally faster on hard surfaces, while wider tires provide more traction and stability on rougher terrain.
Check frame and fork clearance: Make sure the selected tire size and width will fit the frame and fork of your bike. Different mountain bikes have different levels of clearance, especially in the area of the rear triangle and fork crown. Avoid tire clearance issues that could cause friction or interference between the tire and frame/fork.
Consider your driving style and terrain: Your driving style and preferred terrain can influence the choice of tire size. If you ride on aggressive trails or downhills, you can choose wider tires for better stability and traction. For off-road or smoother terrain, narrower tires may be preferable for greater speed and efficiency.

Check out our video "MTB tire guide - abbreviations, types, and tips"