Are you tired of feeling every bump and vibration on your ride? Do you struggle with cornering and traction on rough roads?
The solution may be simpler than you think: wider tyres.
For years, we've been told that narrower tyres are faster and more efficient, but the truth is, wider tyres offer a range of benefits that can
enhance your overall cycling experience. Using wider tyres allows you to run lower air pressure, which can significantly increase comfort and traction.
Here are just a few reasons why you should consider making the switch:
- Increased comfort: Wider tyres provide a smoother ride, absorbing bumps and vibrations that can leave you feeling fatigued
- Improved traction: Wider tyres offer better grip and cornering, giving you more confidence on rough roads and in wet conditions
- Improved rolling resistance: Lower tyre pressure can actually reduce rolling resistance, as the tyres conform to the road surface more easily
- Increased speed: Believe it or not, wider tyres can actually be faster than their narrower counterparts, thanks to reduced rolling resistance and improved aerodynamics.
So, what's the ideal width for a road bike? The range of 28-32mm is considered the sweet spot for optimal performance and comfort.
What is the ideal tyre pressure? Silca's tyre pressure calculator is a helpful tool that takes into account your weight, bike weight, tyre width
and riding surface to calculate the recommended tyre pressure for your ride.
https://silca.cc/pages/pro-tire-pressure-calculator
So for your next coffee stop conversation, ask around about tyre width and pressure. I am sure there will be no shortage of opinion, anecdote and advice.
Happy cycling!
Marc de Silva