There is 2 main choices of tires, although there is a 3rd but we’ll go over that later, below is a description of tubeless tires and tubed tires and the pros and cons of each:
The main difference between tubed and tubeless bicycle tires is in the way they are constructed and how they are attached to the wheel rim.
Tubed Tires: Tubed tires have an inner tube that sits inside the tire and holds the air. The tire itself is made of a rubber casing with a bead that hooks onto the rim. When the tire is inflated, the air pressure pushes the tire outward against the rim, creating a seal that keeps the air in. If the inner tube gets punctured, it can be replaced without having to remove the tire from the rim.
Tubeless Tires: Tubeless tires do not have an inner tube. Instead, they have a special airtight casing that creates an airtight seal against the rim. The tire is seated and sealed on the rim with a sealant and airtight rim tape. This eliminates the need for an inner tube, and the tire is able to hold the air directly. The sealant inside the tire helps to seal any small punctures that may occur while riding. If the tire gets punctured, the sealant will flow into the hole and seal it up automatically.
The benefits of tubeless tires are:
- Reduced risk of punctures: Tubeless tires are less prone to punctures because they have sealant inside that can seal up small holes in the tire.
- Lower rolling resistance: Tubeless tires can be run at lower air pressure, which can improve traction and reduce rolling resistance, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Improved control: Tubeless tires can also improve traction and control on rough terrain, as they can absorb more impact and conform to the surface of the road or trail.
- Less weight: Tubeless tires are lighter than tubed tires, as they do not require an inner tube.
The drawbacks of tubeless tires are:
- Higher initial cost: Tubeless tires are more expensive than tubed tires, and the conversion process from tubed to tubeless can be costly as well.
- Setup can be more difficult: Setting up tubeless tires can be more challenging than installing tubed tires, as it requires special rim tape and sealant.
- Maintenance: The sealant inside the tire needs to be replaced periodically to maintain the tubeless system.
- Limited compatibility: Some wheel and tire combinations may not be compatible with a tubeless setup.
Ultimately, the choice between tubed and tubeless tires comes down to personal preference and the type of riding you do. If you want a more puncture-resistant and comfortable ride, and don’t mind the initial cost and setup, tubeless tires may be a good choice. If you prefer a simpler and more cost-effective setup, and don’t mind the slightly higher risk of punctures, then tubed tires may be the better option for you.
Solid Tires
Solid bicycle tires are available as well, and they usually made of a type of foam that feels almost like a normal tire but they are not as comfortable as ‘pneumatic’ tires and they may not provide as much grip as normal tires but they are flat proof and very low maintenance. You never have to inflate them ever!