How to Pick Mountain Bike Tires

Jan 21st, 2010 | By coolbiking | Category: Bike Parts Accessories

By Alan Cassidy

Mountain bike, also known as all terrain bicycles or ATB are used for heavy duty biking needs. They are meant to be driven on steeper, rocky, dirty and unpaved surfaces. This is why they are called mountain bikes.

Usually, the brands of this type of bike sold in the market have a standard tire size of 26 inches or 559mm in biking speak. You can pick from those with smooth tread or those knobby tires for better shock absorption especially in rocky and bumpy places.

Let me tell you more on how you can pick the right tire for your bicycle:

Pick the right size
Despite what I mentioned about a standard size of tires, they are not accurately precise wheel measurements. For instance, a 29 inch wheel for this type bike has converted measurement of 622 millimeters. It can be tricky finding the right size.

The size will depend on your needs. If you are using a standard wheel rim, naturally, you will use a standard size of tire that can fit the rim. But if you have several wheel rims with you for all intents and purposes, you will have to consider a good many things. If you frequent on dirt jumping, you will have an advantage in using 24 inch wheels as this makes it easier for you to maneuver the bicycle.

Pick the right weight
Choosing the right weight is significant. If you climbing up a steep mountain, heavier tires can be more difficult to handle. Gravity pulls more on it. This should not be a problem if you are not competing but if you are, this can significantly alter your speed.

Pick a durable one
You will have to choose a good brand. Read some reviews and find out what people are saying about the durability of the tire. If more people commend its durability, you can be assured of its resistant qualities.

The manufacturing process and the materials used can also clue you up on the durability of the tire. Some use PVC materials to make it more resistant to punctures. Some companies use exotic ingredients like Black Chili compound to make the tire significantly sticker and more durable.

Pick the right tread type
This will depend on where you plant to use the bicycle. If it is just a day biking around the park, you can go for the normal tires. For a rough ride on mountains and uneven pavements, a heavy duty one is necessary.

Mountain Bike Tire Selection Tips

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By Alan Cassidy – For more tips and advice on continental bike tires, please visit http://www.ContinentalBikeTires.net now

Source: Cool Biking Zone – Your source for great cycling, sports and fitness articles!

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