Bike tire sizing can be confusing at first, but it’s important for a better ride. When you know the right size, you improve comfort and safety. However, balancing factors like terrain and bike type can be tricky. Let’s explore how to make smart choices when selecting the perfect tires.
Bike Tire Sizing Chart
26″ / 559 mm Tires
| ISO / ETRTO (mm) | English size (inch) |
|---|---|
| 20-559 | 26 × 3⁄4 |
| 23-559 | 26 × 0.90 26 × 7⁄8 |
| 25-559 | 26 × 1.00 |
| 28-559 | 26 × 1.10 |
| 30-559 | 26 × 1.20 |
| 32-559 | 26 × 1.25 |
| 35-559 | 26 × 1.35 |
| 37-559 | 26 × 1.40 |
| 40-559 | 26 × 1.50 |
| 42-559 | 26 × 1.60 |
| 44-559 | 26 × 1.625 |
| 47-559 | 26 × 1.75 |
| 50-559 | 26 × 2.00 |
| 54-559 | 26 × 2.10 |
| 57-559 | 26 × 2.25 |
| 60-559 | 26 × 2.35 |
| 62-559 | 26 × 2.40 |
| 64-559 | 26 × 2.50 |
27.5″ / 584 mm / 650B tires
| ISO / ETRTO (mm) | English size (inch) | French size (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 35-584 | 27.5 × 1.35 26 × 1 3⁄8 × 1 1⁄2 | 650B 650 × 35B |
| 37-584 | 27.5 × 1.40 26 × 1 1⁄2 × 1 3⁄8 | 650B 650 × 35B |
| 40-584 | 27.5 × 1.50 26 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 1⁄2 | 650B 650 × 38B |
| 44-584 | 27.5 × 1.65 26 × 1 1⁄2 × 1 5⁄8 26 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 1⁄2 26 × 1 3⁄4 × 1 1⁄2 | 650B 650 × 42B |
| 47-584 | 27.5 × 1.75 | 650B |
| 50-584 | 27.5 × 2.00 | 650B |
| 54-584 | 27.5 × 2.10 | 650B |
| 57-584 | 27.5 × 2.25 | 650B |
| 60-584 | 27.5 × 2.35 | 650B |
| 62-584 | 27.5 × 2.40 | 650B |
| 64-584 | 27.5 × 2.50 | 650B |
| 65-584 | 27.5 × 2.60 | 650B |
| 70-584 | 27.5 × 2.75 | 650B |
28″ / 622 mm / 700C tires
| ISO / ETRTO (mm) | English size (inch) | French size (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 18-622 | 28 × 3⁄4 | 700 × 18C |
| 19-622 | 700 × 19C | |
| 20-622 | 28 × 3⁄4 | 700 × 20C |
| 22-622 | 28 × 7⁄8 | 700 × 22C |
| 23-622 | 28 × 7⁄8 28 × 0.90 | 700 × 23C |
| 24-622 | 700 × 24C | |
| 25-622 | 28 × 1.0 | 700 × 25C |
| 26-622 | 700 × 26C | |
| 28-622 | 28 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 1⁄8 28 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 1⁄4 × 1 1⁄8 28 × 1.10 | 700 × 28C 700 C Carrera |
| 30-622 | 28 × 1.20 | 700 × 30C |
| 32-622 | 28 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 1⁄4 28 × 1 1⁄4 × 1 3⁄4 28 × 1.25 | 700 × 32C 700 × C Course |
| 33-622 | 28 × 1.30 | 700 × 33C |
| 35-622 | 28 × 1.35 | 700 × 35C |
| 37-622 | 28 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 3⁄8 28 × 1.40 | 700 × 35C |
| 40-622 | 28 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 1⁄2 28 × 1.50 | 700 × 38C |
| 42-622 | 28 × 1.6 | 700 × 40C |
| 44-622 | 28 × 1.625 | 700 × 42C |
| 47-622 | 28 × 1 3⁄4 28 × 1 5⁄8 × 1 3⁄4 28 × 1.75 | 700 × 45C |
29″ tires
| ISO / ETRTO (mm) | English size (inch) |
|---|---|
| 50-622 | 28 × 1.90 28 × 2.00 29 × 2.00 |
| 54-622 | 28 × 2.10 29 × 2.10 |
| 55-622 | 28 × 2.15 29 × 2.15 |
| 57-622 | 28 × 2.25 29 × 2.25 |
| 60-622 | 28 × 2.35 29 × 2.35 |
| 62-622 | 28 × 2.40 29 × 2.40 |
Less common bike tire sizes
| ISO / ETRTO (mm) | English size (inch) | French size (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 571 mm | 26 × 1 | 650 C |
| 583 mm | 700 D | |
| 590 mm | 26 × 1 3⁄8 | 650 A |
| 597 mm | 26 × 1 1⁄4 | |
| 630 mm | 27 × 1 1⁄4 27 × 1⁄8 | |
| 635 mm | 28 × 1 1⁄2 |
Understanding Tire Measurements
Bike tires come in various measurements, and understanding these can greatly enhance your cycling experience. First, you’ll encounter the common sizing formats: the ISO system, which provides precise dimensions, and the more familiar inch-based measurements.
As you consider these options, it’s important to weigh the trade-offs. For instance, ISO sizes offer clarity but may be less familiar to some riders. On the other hand, traditional sizes can be easier to understand but may lack the accuracy needed for specific bikes.
Additionally, consider the impact of your choice on performance. Choosing the wrong size can affect handling and comfort. Therefore, taking the time to learn these measurements is essential for making informed decisions about your bike tires.
How to Measure Your Bike Tires
Measuring your bike tires is straightforward, and following these steps will help ensure you get the right size. First, gather the tools you’ll need: a ruler or measuring tape. Next, start by removing the wheel from your bike, as this will make measuring easier.
Once you have the wheel, measure the diameter. Place the ruler across the center of the tire from one side to the other. This measurement is crucial because it determines the overall size of your tire. Additionally, measure the width by placing the ruler at the widest point of the tire.
While these steps may seem simple, trade-offs exist. For instance, measuring while the tire is still on the bike can save time, but it might lead to inaccuracies. Moreover, always consider the impact of your measurements. Choosing the right size can enhance your bike’s performance and comfort, so take the time to measure carefully. By doing so, you’ll make informed decisions that significantly improve your riding experience.
Choosing the Right Tire for Your Bike Type
Different types of bikes require specific tires, and choosing the right one is essential for optimal performance. For instance, road bikes typically use narrow tires, often between 23mm and 32mm. These tires minimize rolling resistance, allowing for speed on smooth surfaces. However, while they excel on pavement, they may struggle on rough terrain.
Conversely, mountain bikes feature wider tires, usually ranging from 2.1 inches to 2.5 inches or more. These tires provide better traction and stability on uneven trails. Yet, the trade-off is increased rolling resistance on pavement, which can slow you down.
For hybrid bikes, which blend features from both road and mountain bikes, tire sizes often fall between these two categories. This versatility allows riders to handle a variety of terrains, but it may compromise performance in specialized conditions.
Ultimately, understanding the impact of your tire choice is crucial. By selecting the right tire for your bike type, you enhance comfort, safety, and efficiency, ensuring a more enjoyable ride. Always consider these factors carefully to make informed decisions that suit your cycling needs.
FAQs
1. How do I know what tire size my bike needs?
To determine the correct tire size for your bike, check the sidewall of your current tires for sizing information, which usually includes numbers like 700x25c or 26×2.0. If you’re unsure, consult your bike’s manual or visit a local bike shop for assistance.
2. Can I use a different tire size than what’s recommended?
While it’s possible to use a different tire size, it’s not advisable. Altering tire sizes can affect handling, comfort, and safety. A mismatched tire can lead to issues like poor traction or rubbing against the frame, so always aim to stick within the recommended sizes for your bike.
3. How often should I replace my bike tires?
The frequency of tire replacement depends on factors like riding style, terrain, and tire condition. Generally, you should inspect your tires regularly for wear and tear. If you notice significant tread wear, cracks, or bulges, it’s time to replace them. For casual riders, this may be every couple of years, while avid cyclists might need replacements more frequently.