Racefietsbanden 700 x 28/32/35C (set van 2, vouwbaar)

Why the tyre matters so much

A tyre is more than rubber around a rim. The rubber compound, the casing (the threads in the sidewall) and the width together set rolling resistance, grip and comfort. A supple casing with fine threads often rolls faster on rough tarmac than a stiff one, because the tyre moulds itself over bumps instead of bouncing the bike up.

Wider tyres have become the norm in recent years. Where 23 mm was the standard for a long time, most road cyclists now ride 28 mm or wider, on modern rims with an internal width of 19 to 25 mm. A wider tyre runs at lower pressure, grips better, feels more comfortable and does not roll slower on real roads. On smooth test tracks narrow is still slightly faster, but that is rarely where you ride.

You also choose between a clincher with an inner tube, a tubeless tyre and a tubular (a tyre glued to the rim). For most riders clincher or tubeless is the sensible choice. Tubeless allows lower pressures, cuts down on punctures thanks to sealant and often feels smoother, but takes a little more know-how to fit.

Think about purpose as well. A light race tyre with thin sidewalls is fast, but wears sooner and is more vulnerable to cuts. A training tyre with a puncture-protection layer weighs more and rolls a bit slower, but lasts far longer and gives peace of mind on poor roads.

Road tyre width and pressure

The right pressure depends on your weight, rim width and whether you run tubeless. These are starting values for a rider of about 75 kg with inner tubes.

With tubeless you can run roughly 0.5 to 1 bar lower. Always check the maximum pressure printed on the tyre and the rim.

How to fit a road tyre

1. Check the rim

   Check that the rim tape is intact and nothing sharp sticks out. Run a finger around the inside of the tyre.

2. Seat the first bead

   Push one side of the tyre onto the rim by hand. Mind the rotation arrow if one is printed on the sidewall.

3. Fit the inner tube

   Inflate the tube just enough to hold its shape, pass the valve through the hole and tuck it inside the tyre.

4. Seat the second bead

   Start at the valve and work round. Push the last section on with your thumbs; use a tyre lever only if you must, so you do not pinch the tube.

5. Check and inflate

   Check the tyre is seated evenly and the tube is not trapped. Inflate to your chosen pressure and look for an even line around the rim.