Upgrading your bike tyres is one of the best ways to enhance your riding experience, whether you’re commuting, mountain biking, or hitting the road for long distances. The right bike tyre upgrade can improve handling, increase speed, add comfort, and provide better control on various terrains. This guide dives into everything you need to know about upgrading bike tyres, with top tips to make the most informed choice for your biking needs.
Why Upgrade Your Bike Tyres?
Upgrading your bike tyres has multiple benefits, including:
- Improved Traction and Control: Upgraded tyres with enhanced tread patterns can significantly boost traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, providing better control.
- Increased Speed: High-quality road bike tyres with smoother treads can help reduce rolling resistance, allowing you to ride faster.
- Enhanced Comfort: Wider tyres and those with specialized rubber compounds offer better shock absorption, making for a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
- Durability: Premium tyres tend to have better puncture resistance and longevity, ensuring they last longer and reduce frequent maintenance needs.
Rim size should be greater..
Is engine capable
Bigger tyres low mileage
Safest upgrade of tyre just 10mm
100mm to 110mm
Tyre side width= percentage of tyre main width.
Keep aspect ratio same:
Ex: 90% of 90mm 90*90/100= 81mm
100/90 = 90mm
100/80 = 80mm (1-mm ok)
if meter works by rear tyre .. majority of meters connect with front tyre.
meter shows wrong realtime speed.
Never change aspect ratio height of the tyre.
130 width 130/17= aspect ratio
130 ka 90%= 117mm front
Ground clearance:
117-90
Tvs raider 100 size to 130 upgrade
Front: 80/100 – 17 tubeless, 46P
Rear: 100/90 – 17 tubeless, 55P
19-30KM mileage lost..
50km mileage after 130 tyre 45-46
Tyre vibrating at 100kmh
Upgrading options
Apache 160 110 size
110/80 R17
Someone tried 140mm tyre
best options
110/70 R17
120/80 R17
110 size may feels little.. when compared to 120.
130mm makes vibration…
while Leaning no use of side grips.
150/60 R17 R15 tyre for tvs raider.
Apollo acti zip 130 grip problem.
RIM & tyre size
upgrading higher tyre no use, maybe use of upto 80%. Lower size RIM unable to expand the tyre.
R17 Rim 100-150 tyre fits but it’s width expansion based on Rim size only.
fit tight
Tyre Size & leaning to hit center
check list for before buying a tyre
Choose right size More important check manufcting date on the chair not below 1-2 years. becuase tyres rubber compound may lasts for 5 years like that.
Check for wear and tear
Look for the tread wear indicator (TWI) inside the tread grooves. If the tread reaches the TWI, or if the wear is uneven, it’s time to replace the tire.
Rotate and replace tires
Rotate tires to even out wear, and replace them every 2,500 to 4,000 kilometers.
Check tire pressure
Use a reliable gauge to check the pressure before every ride. Under-inflated tires can lead to flats, while overinflated tires can reduce traction.
Consider the size of the tires
Larger tires can absorb bumps and vibrations better, but this depends on various factors.
Key Factors to Consider When Upgrading Bike Tyres
- Determine Your Riding Style
- Different tyres are designed for various terrains and purposes. Understanding your riding style can guide you to the most suitable tyres:
- Commuting/City Riding: Look for durable, puncture-resistant tyres that provide stability and grip on paved roads.
- Mountain Biking: Opt for wider tyres with aggressive treads for extra grip on rocky or muddy terrain.
- Road Biking: Choose lightweight tyres with a smoother tread pattern to increase speed and reduce rolling resistance.
- Different tyres are designed for various terrains and purposes. Understanding your riding style can guide you to the most suitable tyres:
- Tyre Width and Diameter
- Upgrading tyre width and diameter impacts performance and comfort:
- Width: Wider tyres (35mm+) provide more stability and comfort, ideal for rough terrains. Narrower tyres (20-25mm) offer lower rolling resistance, ideal for speed.
- Diameter: Common options include 26″, 27.5″, and 29″. Mountain bikers often prefer larger diameters (29″) for better rollover, while smaller diameters are more agile and maneuverable.
- Upgrading tyre width and diameter impacts performance and comfort:
- Tread Pattern
- Choosing the right tread pattern depends on your typical riding surface:
- Slick/Smooth Treads: Best for road biking, offering low rolling resistance and speed on smooth surfaces.
- Semi-Slick Treads: A good choice for light off-roading or mixed-surface commuting, balancing speed with traction.
- Knobby Treads: Perfect for mountain biking, as the larger knobs grip loose or uneven surfaces.
- Choosing the right tread pattern depends on your typical riding surface:
- Puncture Protection
- If you ride in areas prone to debris, glass, or sharp objects, look for tyres with puncture-resistant features, such as Kevlar belts or reinforced sidewalls. This added layer of protection can prevent flats and save you time on roadside repairs.
- Tubeless vs. Tubed Tyres
- Tubeless Tyres: These tyres do not require an inner tube and are popular for their puncture resistance, especially in mountain biking. With a sealant, they can self-seal small punctures, offering extra durability.
- Tubed Tyres: Traditional and usually cheaper, tubed tyres are still common. While they might not offer the same puncture resistance, they are often easier to repair on the go.
- Material and Compound
- Tyre compounds determine their grip, durability, and performance:
- Hard Compound Tyres: Last longer and are more puncture-resistant but may have less grip.
- Soft Compound Tyres: Offer better grip and control but tend to wear out faster.
- Tyre compounds determine their grip, durability, and performance:
- Tyre Pressure
- While not technically part of the tyre itself, running the optimal tyre pressure for your setup is essential. Wider tyres and off-road setups often run at lower pressures for better traction, while road tyres benefit from higher pressures to reduce rolling resistance.
Top Tips for a Successful Bike Tyre Upgrade
- Match Tyre Width with Rim Width
- Ensure your chosen tyre width aligns with your bike’s rim width. Check your bike’s specifications or consult with a bike shop to find compatible options.
- Consider Weight if Speed is a Priority
- Lightweight tyres improve acceleration and reduce fatigue, making a noticeable difference for competitive or long-distance riders.
- Use a High-Quality Sealant for Tubeless Tyres
- Tubeless tyres are only as effective as the sealant used. Look for a reliable brand that provides fast puncture sealing without drying out too quickly.
- Check Compatibility with Bike Frame
- Not all tyres fit all frames. Measure the clearance of your frame and fork to ensure the new tyres won’t rub or obstruct the brakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Upgrading Tyres
- Choosing the Wrong Tread for Your Terrain
- Using knobby tyres on smooth roads increases rolling resistance, while slick tyres on muddy trails reduce traction. Always align your tread pattern with the primary surfaces you ride on.
- Assuming Wider Tyres Are Always Better
- While wider tyres add comfort, they aren’t necessarily ideal for every rider or situation. Road cyclists often find narrower tyres improve their overall speed and efficiency on paved routes.
Best Bike Tyre Brands for Upgrading
Some of the top brands for bike tyres include:
- Schwalbe: Known for high-quality touring and mountain bike tyres with excellent puncture protection.
- Continental: Renowned for road tyres with high rolling efficiency and durability.
- Maxxis: A favorite among mountain bikers for durable, grippy tyres designed for rough trails.
- Michelin: Offers a wide range of tyres suitable for different types of cycling, from road to mountain.
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