How to choose tyres for road cycling

Tyres are the single biggest performance-and-feel upgrade you can make to a road bike for the money. They affect rolling resistance, comfort, grip, and puncture resistance — usually more than wheels do.

Tyre design is a constantly evolving area, so always cross-check current models against independent rolling-resistance tests.

Width

Modern road tyres have trended wider. 28mm is now common on race bikes, 30–32mm on endurance bikes, and even wider on all-road builds. Wider tyres at lower pressures usually roll as fast or faster than narrower tyres at higher pressures, while being more comfortable and offering more grip.

Always confirm your frame's clearance before buying.

Tubeless or tubed?

Tubeless makes more sense the more often you ride and the more you value puncture protection. Tubed is simpler and cheaper if you ride less.

Casing and compound

• Casing TPI (threads per inch) — higher TPI usually means a more supple, faster-rolling tyre, but slightly less puncture protection.
• Compound — softer rubber grips better but wears faster.

How to think about it

• Daily training — durability-leaning tyre, larger size if your frame allows.
• Race day — light, supple tyre, often tubeless.
• Wet conditions — softer compound, cut-resistant casing.

Browse our tyre selection or ask us which model fits your frame and riding.