Top 10 Most Common Bicycle Tire Sizes and Their Uses

Here are the top 10 most common bicycle tire sizes you’ll see today:

• 700x25c

• 700x28c

• 700x32c

• 700x23c

• 26×2.35

• 27.5×2.25

• 29×2.25

• 650b (27.5×1.5)

• 24×1.75

• 20×2.125

When you pick from these bicycle tire sizes, you want the right fit for your riding style and bike type. The right tire size gives you a smoother ride and keeps your bicycle tire working its best.

Key Takeaways

• Pick the right tire size for your bike and how you ride. This helps you ride smoother and safer.

• Narrow tires like 700x23c and 700x25c are fast on smooth roads. But they are not as comfy on bumpy roads.

• Wider tires like 700x28c and 700x32c give better grip. They also feel better on rough or mixed ground.

• Mountain bike tires come in 26″, 27.5″, and 29″ sizes. Each size gives a different mix of speed, control, and comfort.

• Always check your bike’s frame and rim before you buy tires. This makes sure the tires fit and do not cause damage.

• Lower tire pressure in wider tires helps grip the road. It also soaks up bumps and makes rides more comfy.

• Kids’ and BMX bikes use smaller, wider tires like 24×1.75 and 20×2.125. These tires help with balance and control for tricks and learning.

• New wider road tires can go as fast as skinny ones if pumped up right. This means you get both speed and comfort.

Common Tire Sizes

700x25c

Overview

You’ll spot 700x25c tires on many modern road bikes. This size means the tire fits a 700c wheel and measures about 25mm wide. Riders often choose this size for a balance between speed and comfort. It’s one of the most common tire sizes for people who want a fast ride but still need a little cushion.

Uses

You’ll love 700x25c tires if you ride on smooth pavement or race on the road. These tires work well for daily commutes, group rides, and even long-distance events. Many bike tire brands offer this size because it rolls quickly and handles well.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Fast rolling on smooth roads

  • Lightweight feel

  • Good grip for cornering

• Cons:

  • Less comfortable on rough roads

  • Not ideal for gravel or bumpy trails

700x28c

Overview

The 700x28c tire has become super popular in recent years. It fits the same 700c wheel but is a bit wider at 28mm. You get more air volume, which means a softer ride and better grip. Many riders now pick this size for both racing and everyday riding.

Uses

You’ll find 700x28c tires on road bikes, gravel bikes, and even some urban bikes. This size shines when you want to ride fast but also want comfort. It handles rough pavement, potholes, and even light gravel. Many top bike tire brands make high-performance 28mm tires for training and racing.

Here’s a quick look at how some popular 700x28c tires compare:

Tire Model	Width (mm)	Rim Width (mm)	Highlights	Best Use
Pirelli P-Zero Race TLR RS	28	25.8 (inside), 34.6 (outside)	Plush ride, great grip, fast on road, works on gravel	Training, racing, mixed surfaces
Schwalbe Pro One TLE	28	Not specified	Top rolling resistance, aero profile, tubeless ready	Training, racing
Bontrager Aeolus RSL TLR	28	23-25 (internal)	Durable, easy to install, good handling	Everyday riding, racing
Michelin Power Cup TLR	28	25 (inside), 32 (outside)	Excellent grip, comfy ride, good in wet and dry	Training, racing, high grip

Tip: Pairing 28mm tires with wider rims boosts comfort and handling. Tubeless setups let you run lower pressures for even more grip and fewer flats.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Smooth ride on rough roads

  • Great grip in corners and wet weather

  • Works well for both speed and comfort

  • Tubeless options reduce flats

• Cons:

  • Slightly heavier than narrower tires

  • May not fit older road bikes with tight clearances

700x32c

Overview

The 700x32c tire is even wider, measuring about 32mm across. This size has become a favorite for riders who want extra comfort and stability. You’ll see it on gravel bikes, adventure bikes, and some city bikes. It’s one of the best bicycle tire sizes for mixed terrain.

Uses

You can use 700x32c tires for commuting, touring, and gravel riding. They handle rough roads, dirt paths, and even some light trails. If you want a bike tire that soaks up bumps and keeps you steady, this size is a great pick.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Super comfortable on bumpy roads

  • Stable and confidence-inspiring

  • Handles a mix of pavement and dirt

• Cons:

  • Slower on smooth pavement compared to narrower tires

  • Heavier, which can make climbing a bit tougher

700x23c

Overview

You might remember when 700x23c was the go-to size for road bikes. This bike tire fits a 700c wheel and measures 23mm wide. Riders loved it for its light weight and fast feel. Many racing bikes from the past decade came with this size. It still pops up on older bikes and in some racing circles.

Uses

You will see 700x23c tires on classic road bikes and racing bikes. If you want to go fast on smooth pavement, this size delivers. Some riders pick it for time trials or track cycling. It works best when you want speed above all else.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Super light and fast

  • Low rolling resistance

  • Great for racing on smooth roads

• Cons:

  • Less comfortable on rough surfaces

  • Not much grip on wet or bumpy roads

  • Can feel harsh on long rides

Note: Most new road bikes now use wider tires for extra comfort and grip. You might want to check your bike’s frame before switching to a wider bike tire.

26×2.35

Overview

The 26×2.35 bike tire is a classic choice for mountain bikes. It fits a 26-inch wheel and is 2.35 inches wide. This size gives you a chunky, tough tire that handles rough trails. Many older mountain bikes use this size, but you can still find it on some new models, especially for dirt jumping or trail riding.

Uses

You will love 26×2.35 tires if you ride on rocky trails, roots, or loose dirt. This size works well for mountain biking, trail riding, and even some urban bikes built for tricks. It gives you lots of grip and control when the path gets rough.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Excellent traction on dirt and rocks

  • Cushions bumps and drops

  • Strong and durable for tough rides

• Cons:

  • Heavier than slimmer tires

  • Slower on pavement

  • Not as common on new bikes

Tip: If you ride an older mountain bike, this size keeps your bike tire feeling fresh and ready for adventure.

27.5×2.25

Overview

The 27.5×2.25 tire is a modern favorite for mountain bikes. It fits a 27.5-inch wheel and is 2.25 inches wide. Many new trail and cross-country bikes use this size. Riders like it because it balances speed, grip, and comfort.

Uses

You will find 27.5×2.25 tires on trail bikes, cross-country bikes, and even some e-bikes. This size handles twisty singletrack, rocky paths, and fast descents. It gives you a smooth ride and helps you keep control on tricky terrain.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Good mix of speed and grip

  • Lighter than wider mountain bike tires

  • Fits many modern bikes

• Cons:

  • Not as fast as 29-inch tires on long, straight trails

  • Less cushy than super-wide tires

  • May not fit older mountain bikes

If you want a bike tire that works for both fun trails and daily rides, 27.5×2.25 is a smart pick.

29×2.25

Overview

You will see 29×2.25 tires on many modern mountain bikes. This tire fits a 29-inch wheel and is 2.25 inches wide. Riders call these “29ers.” They have become very popular for cross-country and trail riding. The large diameter helps you roll over rocks, roots, and bumps with ease. You get a smooth ride and better control on rough trails.

Uses

You should pick 29×2.25 tires if you love mountain biking on tough terrain. These tires work great for cross-country races, long trail rides, and even bikepacking trips. You can ride over obstacles that would slow down smaller wheels. Many riders say 29ers help them go faster and feel more stable on tricky paths.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Rolls over bumps and rocks easily

  • Gives you more speed on flat and downhill trails

  • Offers good grip and control

• Cons:

  • Heavier than smaller tires

  • Can feel slow to turn on tight trails

  • May not fit older mountain bike frames

Tip: If you want a mountain bike tire that handles rough trails and keeps you moving fast, 29×2.25 is a smart choice.

650b (27.5×1.5)

Overview

The 650b (27.5×1.5) tire is a favorite for gravel bikes and some city bikes. It fits a 27.5-inch wheel and is 1.5 inches wide. This size sits between road and mountain bike tires. You get a mix of speed and comfort. Many riders like this size for adventure rides and daily commutes.

Uses

You can use 650b tires for gravel riding, touring, and city cycling. These tires handle pavement, dirt roads, and even light trails. If you want a tire that feels fast but still gives you a soft ride, 650b is a great pick. Some e-bikes also use this size for better grip and comfort.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Smooth ride on mixed surfaces

  • Lighter than most mountain bike tires

  • Fits many modern gravel and adventure bikes

• Cons:

  • Not as fast as skinny road tires on pavement

  • Fewer choices than 700c tires

  • May not fit all bike frames

Note: Some riders choose 650b tires to run wider, almost fat tires for extra comfort and grip on rough roads.

24×1.75

Overview

You will often find 24×1.75 tires on kids’ bikes, BMX bikes, and some small mountain bikes. This tire fits a 24-inch wheel and is 1.75 inches wide. It gives young riders a good mix of grip and speed. The size is also easy to handle for smaller riders.

Uses

You should use 24×1.75 tires for youth bikes, BMX racing, and light trail riding. These tires work well for learning to ride, doing tricks, or just having fun in the neighborhood. They also fit some folding bikes and compact urban bikes.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Easy to control for young or small riders

  • Good grip for BMX tricks and jumps

  • Durable for everyday use

• Cons:

  • Slower than larger tires on long rides

  • Not as smooth on rough trails

  • Limited choices for advanced riders

If you want a tire that helps kids learn and have fun, 24×1.75 is a solid option.

20×2.125

Overview

You will often see 20×2.125 tires on BMX bikes, kids’ bikes, and some folding bikes. This tire fits a 20-inch wheel and measures 2.125 inches wide. The wide profile gives you extra grip and a soft ride. Many riders pick this size for tricks, jumps, and riding on rough ground. You get a tire that feels sturdy and fun.

If you want a tire that handles bumps and jumps, 20×2.125 is a top choice for smaller bikes.

Uses

You can use 20×2.125 tires in many ways. Here are some of the most common uses:

• BMX Riding: These tires work great for BMX racing, freestyle, and dirt jumping. You get strong grip and control when you land tricks or ride ramps.

• Kids’ Bikes: Many children’s bikes use this size. The wide tire helps young riders stay balanced and safe.

• Folding Bikes: Some folding bikes use 20×2.125 tires. You get a smooth ride even on city streets with cracks or bumps.

• Urban Cruising: If you ride on sidewalks, parks, or playgrounds, this tire size gives you comfort and stability.

Pros & Cons

Let’s break down the main advantages and disadvantages of 20×2.125 tires:

Pros 😊	Cons 😕
Great grip on dirt and ramps	Heavier than skinny tires
Cushions bumps and jumps	Slower on smooth pavement
Easy to control for tricks	Not ideal for long road rides
Durable for rough use	Limited speed

Tip: If you want a tire that lets you ride hard, try new tricks, or help your child learn to ride, 20×2.125 is a smart pick. You get safety, fun, and lots of control.

Road Bike Tires

700c Series

When you look at most road bike tires, you’ll notice one thing right away: the 700c wheel size is everywhere. This size has become the gold standard for road bikes. Why? It gives you a smooth ride and helps you keep your speed up. The larger wheel rolls over bumps and cracks more easily than smaller wheels. You feel less vibration, so your hands and arms stay comfortable on long rides.

Most road bikes, from speedy racers to city commuters, use 700c wheels. This size works well for both beginners and experienced riders. You get a good mix of speed, comfort, and control. If you want to ride fast on pavement or cruise through the city, 700c wheels make it easy.

Width Trends

Now, let’s talk about tire width. Years ago, skinny tires ruled the road. Riders picked 23mm tires for racing and fast group rides. These tires felt light and quick, but they could be harsh on rough pavement.

Today, things have changed. Many riders now choose wider road bike tires, like 25mm, 28mm, or even 32mm. Why the switch? Wider tires give you more comfort and better grip. You can run lower tire pressures, which means your tires soak up bumps instead of bouncing over them. This makes your ride smoother and helps you stay in control, even on rough roads or in wet weather.

Here’s what happens when you pick different road tire sizes:

• 23mm: Fast and light, but less comfortable. Best for smooth roads and racing.

• 25mm: A balance of speed and comfort. Good for most riders.

• 28mm: More comfort and grip. Great for rough roads, long rides, and mixed surfaces.

• 32mm: Super comfy and stable. Perfect for gravel, city riding, or anyone who wants a plush ride.

You might wonder if wider tires slow you down. The truth is, modern wider tires can roll just as fast as skinny ones, especially when you use the right pressure. Plus, you get extra safety and control.

Tip: Always check your bike’s frame and rim to make sure they fit the tire width you want. Not all bikes can handle the widest tires.

Here are some reasons why tire size matters for comfort and safety:

• Wider tires (28c to 42c) let you use lower pressures, which increases grip and comfort.

• Lower pressure helps your tires roll over obstacles more easily.

• Your tire width must match your bike’s frame and rim to avoid problems.

• 700c wheels give you a smoother ride because they hold more air.

• The right balance of pressure, width, and tire material keeps you safe and comfortable.

• Some tires have reflective sidewalls to help drivers see you at night.

If you want the best ride, think about your roads, your style, and your bike. Modern road bike tires give you lots of choices, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

Mountain Bike Tires

When you look at mountain bike tires, you’ll see three main tire diameters: 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch. Each one has its own strengths and works best for different types of riding. Let’s break down what makes each size special and how you can pick the right one for your adventures.

26-inch

You might spot 26-inch tires on older mountain bikes or bikes built for tricks and jumps. This classic size gives you a nimble feel. You can turn quickly and handle tight trails with ease. Many riders like 26-inch tires for technical trails, dirt jumps, and even some e-bikes.

• Why choose 26-inch?

  • You get quick handling and a playful ride.

  • These tires work well for smaller riders or anyone who wants a lighter bike.

  • They shine on rocky, rooty, or twisty trails.

Modern 26-inch mountain bike tires often use strong casings and sidewall protection. Features like Kevlar or nylon inserts help stop flats from sharp rocks. Dual compound rubber gives you grip on corners and long tread life. Tubeless-ready designs let you run lower pressures, so you get more comfort and fewer pinch flats. If you want to ride hard on rough trails, look for tires with reinforced sidewalls and the right tread for your local terrain.

Tip: Adjust your tire pressure for the trail. Lower pressure gives you more grip, but too low can cause flats.

27.5-inch

The 27.5-inch tire, sometimes called 650b, is a favorite for modern trail and enduro bikes. This size sits right between 26 and 29 inches. You get a mix of speed, control, and comfort. Many riders say 27.5-inch tires feel just right for twisty singletrack and fast descents.

• Why pick 27.5-inch?

  • You get better rollover than 26-inch, but still keep a lively feel.

  • These tires work well for all-around trail riding and enduro racing.

  • They fit many new bikes and offer lots of choices for width and tread.

If you want a tire that handles jumps, drops, and sharp turns, 27.5-inch is a solid choice. You can find wide tires for extra grip or slimmer ones for speed. The right tread pattern helps you tackle mud, loose dirt, or hardpack trails.

29-inch

You’ll see 29-inch tires, or “29ers,” on many cross-country and trail bikes. These big wheels roll over rocks, roots, and bumps with ease. You feel more stable and keep your speed up on rough ground. Many riders love 29-inch tires for long rides and racing.

• Why go with 29-inch?

  • You get smoother rides over rough terrain.

  • These tires help you climb better and keep momentum on flat trails.

  • They work great for cross-country, trail, and even bikepacking.

Expert testers have spent weeks riding 29-inch mountain bike tires on real trails. They found that the right tire and rim combo gives you better grip, control, and climbing power. Rim width and tire casing matter a lot. Wider rims (25–30mm) help your tires grip better in corners. Strong casings protect against flats and let you ride harder.

Why Width and Tread Matter

When you pick mountain bike tires, don’t just look at the diameter. Width and tread pattern make a big difference. Wider tires give you more grip and comfort. Aggressive tread helps you dig into loose dirt or mud. For rocky trails, look for strong sidewalls and deep knobs. For hardpack, a smoother tread rolls faster.

Here’s a quick table to help you compare the main mountain tire sizes:

Tire Diameter	Best Use	Ride Feel	Typical Widths
26-inch	Technical, jumps, e-bikes	Nimble, playful	2.1″–2.5″
27.5-inch	Trail, enduro, all-around	Balanced, lively	2.2″–2.6″
29-inch	XC, trail, bikepacking	Smooth, stable	2.2″–2.6″+

Remember: The best mountain bike tires for you depend on your riding style, local trails, and what feels right under your feet.

Bicycle Tire Sizes Table

When you want to pick the right tire, a quick tire size chart can save you time and confusion. You can use this chart to match your bike type, riding style, and the kind of roads or trails you ride. Let’s break down the most common bike tire sizes, so you can see which one fits your needs best.

Size

Here’s a handy tire size chart for you. It lists the 10 most popular sizes you’ll find in stores and on bikes today:

Tire Size	Typical Bike Type	Main Uses
700x25c	Road Bike	Fast road riding, racing
700x28c	Road, Gravel, Urban	Commuting, mixed surfaces
700x32c	Gravel, Touring, Hybrid	Adventure, comfort, rough roads
700x23c	Road Bike (older models)	Racing, time trials
26×2.35	Mountain Bike	Trails, jumps, rough terrain
27.5×2.25	Trail, XC, E-MTB	All-around mountain biking
29×2.25	XC, Trail, Bikepacking	Long rides, rough trails
650b (27.5×1.5)	Gravel, Urban, E-Bike	Mixed terrain, city, adventure
24×1.75	Kids, BMX, Small MTB	Learning, tricks, light trails
20×2.125	BMX, Kids, Folding Bike	Tricks, jumps, city cruising

Tip: Always check your bike’s rim size before picking a tire. The right match keeps you safe and makes your ride smoother. For example, a 700x25c tire fits best on rims with an inner width of 13-19mm, while wider tires like 700x32c need rims up to 25mm wide. This helps you avoid flats and keeps your bike rolling well.

Bike Type

You’ll notice that each tire size in the tire size chart matches a certain bike type. Road bikes usually use narrower, smooth tires for speed. Mountain bikes need wider, knobby tires for grip on dirt and rocks. Gravel and hybrid bikes sit in the middle, using tires that balance comfort and control. Kids’ bikes and BMX bikes use smaller, wider tires for stability and fun.

Tire tread also matters. Smooth tires work best for pavement and racing. Knobby tires help you ride on mud, gravel, or rough trails. When you look at a tire size chart, you can spot these differences and pick what fits your riding plans.

Main Uses

A good tire size chart shows you more than just numbers. It helps you see which tire works for your daily commute, weekend adventure, or mountain trail. If you ride mostly on city streets, you’ll want a tire that rolls fast and feels light. If you love trails or gravel, you’ll need a tire that grips and cushions bumps.

You can use this tire size chart to compare options and make a smart choice. The right tire size boosts your comfort, safety, and fun every time you ride.

Want to keep things simple? Bookmark this tire size chart for quick answers whenever you shop for new tires or help a friend pick the right one.

Choosing Tire Size

Riding Style

Your riding style plays a huge role in picking the right tire size. Do you love racing on smooth roads, or do you prefer exploring gravel paths and trails? Maybe you ride for fun around the city or commute to work every day. Each style needs a different approach.

• If you ride fast and want top speed, go for a narrower tire. These tires cut through the air and help you go quicker on smooth pavement.

• If you want comfort and grip, especially on rough roads or gravel, choose a wider tire. Wider tires soak up bumps and give you more control.

• For mixed riding, like commuting or adventure rides, a mid-width tire balances speed and comfort.

Manufacturers and experts suggest starting with a tire pressure calculator. These tools use your weight, tire width, and riding speed to give you a good starting point. You can then adjust the pressure until your bike feels just right. There’s no single answer for everyone, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Tip: Wider rims work best with wider tires. This combo gives you better handling and less rolling resistance. Many riders find that a wider tire at lower pressure rolls faster and feels smoother, even on bumpy roads.

Bike Type

The type of bike you ride also affects your tire size choice. Road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and kids’ bikes all use different sizes for a reason.

Bike Type	Typical Tire Size	Best For
Road Bike	700x25c, 700x28c	Speed, smooth pavement
Gravel Bike	700x32c, 650b	Mixed surfaces, comfort
Mountain Bike	27.5×2.25, 29×2.25	Trails, rocks, dirt
Kids’/BMX	24×1.75, 20×2.125	Tricks, learning, city riding

Road bikes usually use narrow tires for speed. Mountain bikes need wide, knobby tires for grip on dirt and rocks. Gravel and hybrid bikes use tires that balance comfort and control. Kids’ bikes and BMX bikes use smaller, wider tires for stability and fun.

When you pick a tire, check your bike’s frame and rim. Not every bike can fit every tire size. Some modern bikes let you use wider tires, but older frames might not have enough space.

Terrain

Think about where you ride most. Terrain changes everything. Smooth pavement, rocky trails, loose gravel, and muddy paths all need different tires.

• For smooth roads, a narrow tire with less tread works best. You get less rolling resistance and more speed.

• On rough roads or gravel, a wider tire at lower pressure gives you comfort and grip. These tires help you stay in control and avoid slipping.

• Muddy or snowy trails need tires with deep treads or even metal studs. These features help you dig in and keep moving forward.

Studies show that wider tires reduce vibrations and help you ride faster on rough ground. They also give you more confidence and control. If you ride on mixed terrain, start with the widest tire that fits your bike. Adjust the pressure until you find the sweet spot between comfort and speed.

Note: Tire labels don’t always match the actual width once mounted. Always measure your tire after installation to make sure you have the correct tire size for your needs.

Manufacturer Specs

When you pick a new tire, you can’t just grab any size off the shelf. You need to check your bike’s manufacturer specs. These specs tell you what tire sizes fit your bike safely. If you skip this step, you might end up with a tire that doesn’t fit, or worse, one that could pop off the rim while you ride. That’s not just annoying—it’s dangerous.

Manufacturers test their bikes with different tire sizes. They list the safe range for both tire width and pressure. You’ll find this info in your bike’s manual or on the brand’s website. Here’s a table that shows real examples from popular bikes:

Bicycle Model	Wheel Diameter	Tested Min Tire Width	Tested Max Tire Width	Stock Tire Width	Recommended Pressure Range
Roadster	700c	23mm	32mm	28mm	50-85 psi
Gravel Roadster	700c	35mm	50mm	42mm	45-50 psi
Core-5	27.5″	1.75″	2.4″	2.2″	40-50 psi
Cafe Cruiser	26″	2.6″	3.2″	3.0″	10-20 psi
Revv1	20″	4″	4″	4″	20-30 psi
Prodigy XR/ST	27.5″	1.5″	2.2″	2″	40-55 psi
Vorsa	27.5″	2.4″	2.6″	2.6″	35-45 psi

You can see that each bike has a tested range for tire width. For example, the Roadster can use tires from 23mm to 32mm wide, but the Gravel Roadster needs much wider tires. If you try to use a tire outside the tested range, you risk poor handling or even a blowout.

Tip: Always match the tire diameter to your wheel. A 700c tire only fits a 700c wheel. Even a small mismatch can cause the tire to come off while you ride.

Manufacturers also give you advice about tube sizing and valve types. If you use the wrong tube size, your tire might not inflate right or could pinch flat. The valve type matters too—some rims only fit Presta valves, while others use Schrader.

Here’s what you should check before you buy:

• Wheel diameter: Make sure the tire matches your wheel exactly.

• Tire width: Stay within the tested range for your bike model.

• Tube size: Pick a tube that fits both your tire and rim.

• Valve type: Check what your rim accepts.

If you follow the specs, you get a safer, smoother ride. You also make your tires last longer. When in doubt, look up your bike’s manual or ask your local bike shop for help. They can help you find the perfect fit every time.

Choosing the right tire size for your bike makes every ride better. When you match your tire to your bike and how you ride, you get more comfort, better control, and a safer trip. Here’s what happens when you pick the right size:

• Wider tires give you more grip and soak up bumps.

• Narrow tires roll faster on smooth roads.

• The right tread and width help you stay safe and ride longer.

Want a quick reminder? Check the table and tips above anytime you need help picking your next tire. 🚲

FAQ

What do the numbers on a bike tire mean?

You see numbers like 700x28c or 26×2.35 on your tire. The first number shows the tire’s diameter. The second number tells you the width. These numbers help you pick the right size for your bike.

Can I use a wider tire on my bike?

You can use a wider tire if your bike frame and rims have enough space. Always check your bike’s specs first. If the tire rubs the frame or brakes, it’s too wide.

How do I know if a tire will fit my rim?

Check your rim’s diameter and width. The tire size must match the rim size. Most tires list the compatible rim width on the sidewall or packaging. If you’re unsure, ask your local bike shop.

What’s the best tire size for city riding?

For city riding, you want comfort and speed. Tires between 28mm and 32mm wide work well. They roll fast on pavement and handle bumps or potholes better than skinny tires.

Do wider tires slow me down?

Not always! Modern wider tires can roll just as fast as narrow ones, especially on rough roads. You get more comfort and grip, too. The key is to use the right tire pressure.

How often should I replace my bike tires?

Replace your tires when you see cracks, bald spots, or lots of cuts. If you get frequent flats, it’s time for new tires. Most riders change tires every 2,000 to 4,000 miles.

Can I mix different tire sizes on my bike?

You can use different widths on the front and back, but both tires must fit your rims and frame. Many riders use a wider tire in the back for grip and a narrower one in the front for speed.