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All About Bicycle Tires: Inner and Outer Tires

When you need new bicycle tires, it's important to know which type and size best fit your bike. Whether you're looking for inner tubes or outer tires, there are several factors to consider. The right tires provide comfort, safety, and better performance, whether for daily rides or sporty excursions. Here you will find all the information about choosing, replacing, and maintaining bicycle tires.

Which Inner or Outer Tire Do I Need?

The choice between different inner and outer tires depends on your bike and the type of rides you make. For an outer tire, you should pay attention to the tread (the thickness and pattern) and the material, as this determines grip, speed, and durability. Racing bike tires, for example, are smoother and thinner for higher speeds. Mountain bike tires, on the other hand, have a deep tread for grip on unpaved paths. When buying a new bike tire, whether an inner and/or outer tire, always choose a tire that matches your type of bike. This could be a city bike, racing bike, or mountain bike. The inner tube must match in size and valve type (Dunlop, Presta, or Schrader) with your outer tire and rim. For the inner tube, the material, such as butyl or latex, also determines puncture resistance and comfort.

How Do I Know Which Tire Size Fits My Rim?

Determining the correct size is essential when choosing new tires. On the side of the tire, there is a number such as “700x28” (racing bike) or “26x1.75” (mountain bike), indicating the diameter and width of the tire. The ETRTO size, for example, "37-622", is an even more precise indication: the first number is the width in millimeters, and the second is the diameter of the rim. Make sure to choose the exact size that fits your rim when ordering bicycle tires, as a tire that is too small or too large will not function properly.

Which Bicycle Tires Fit Different Cycling Disciplines?

• City Bikes: For daily use on paved roads, I best choose a durable, puncture-resistant outer tire with a medium tread. Such a tire ensures a comfortable ride and lasts a long time.
• Racing Bikes: Racing tires are narrow and smooth for minimal rolling resistance and maximum speed on asphalt. The low profile and lightweight construction are ideal for speed but less suitable for wet or unpaved surfaces.
• Mountain Bikes: For rough, unpaved roads, I choose a wide tire with a coarse tread. These tires provide maximum grip on muddy or sandy paths.
• Hybrid/Trekking Bikes: For rides over both asphalt and light unpaved paths, all-round tires with a medium tread are suitable. They offer a good balance between speed and grip.

How Do I Patch a Tire?

Patching a flat inner tube is a simple way to get back on the road quickly without having to buy a completely new bicycle tire. To patch a bicycle tire, you need tire levers, a repair kit (with patches, sandpaper, and solution/glue), and a pump. Follow these steps:
Remove the outer tire from the rim with tire levers. Take out the inner tube and locate the puncture by holding the tire under water (bubbles reveal the location). Dry the tire and lightly sand the area around the puncture. Apply tire patch glue and let it dry briefly. Place a patch on the tire patch glue and press firmly. Reinsert the inner tube and carefully mount the outer tire.
Want to read more about how to patch a tire? Then read our blog on how to patch your inner tube.

How Can I Inflate a Bicycle Tire?

To properly inflate a bicycle tire, I need to know what pressure (PSI or bar) is suitable for the tire. The recommended pressure is often indicated on the tire itself. Use a pump that is suitable for the type of valve on your tire. Pumps with a pressure gauge can help achieve the correct pressure. You can also inflate your bicycle tire with a CO2 cartridge. First, screw the cartridge into a CO2 pump head and press it onto the tire valve. Once you activate the cartridge, the CO2 quickly flows into the tire and inflates it to the desired pressure in seconds. This is especially handy for quick repairs on the go. But be careful: the tire may lose some pressure over time. Therefore, check the tire pressure again later with a regular pump. In any case, regularly checking the tire pressure is advisable. Correct tire pressure ensures less rolling resistance, more riding comfort, and a lower chance of flat tires.

What Types of Valves Are There?

There are three commonly used valve types for bicycle tires: Dunlop, Schrader, and Presta. Each has unique properties and is often used for specific types of bikes.
The Dunlop valve, also known as the Dutch valve or Blitz valve, is the most traditional valve type and is common on city bikes and older bicycles in the Netherlands and Europe. This valve is easy to use because it fits most standard bicycle pumps, especially older bicycle pumps without pressure gauges. The inner valve part of the Dunlop valve can be unscrewed, making it easy to replace in case of leakage. Although the valve is user-friendly, it cannot handle as high air pressure as, for example, the Presta valve. Therefore, it is less suitable for bikes that require high tire pressure, such as racing bikes. It also requires more frequent maintenance, as the rubber parts can wear out over time.
The Schrader valve, also known as the car valve, has a robust and wider stem that is identical to that of car tires. This type of valve is sturdier and is often found on mountain bikes and some hybrid bikes. It can handle higher air pressure, which is useful for bikes where high pressure in the tire is desired. The Schrader valve also offers extra convenience: because it has the same connection as car valves, I can inflate it with both a regular bicycle pump and at a gas station. However, be aware that the larger diameter of the Schrader valve does not always fit narrow rims, such as those of racing bikes.
The Presta valve, also known as the French valve or Sclaverand valve, has a narrow and lightweight design that is ideal for racing bikes and high-performance bicycles. This valve type can handle very high pressure, up to 15 bar. This is important for sporty cycling performance. The lightweight and thin design also makes it suitable for the narrow racing bike rims where wider valves like the Schrader valve do not fit. A Presta valve requires a specific inflation mechanism: to allow air in, I must first unscrew the top screw part. Often a special pump or adapter is needed.
In summary, the Dunlop valve is a simple and practical choice for city bikes, the Schrader valve is sturdy and versatile for mountain bikes and hybrid bikes, and the Presta valve is lightweight and high-quality for racing bikes and high pressure. Choosing the right valve for your bike makes maintenance easier and improves your riding experience.

How Can I Replace a Bicycle Tire?

Replacing a bicycle tire is a good solution when the tire is heavily worn or there are significant damages. The steps are as follows:

• Let the tire completely deflate and use tire levers to remove the outer tire from the rim.
• Remove the inner tube and inspect the outer tire for damages or sharp objects.
• Place the new inner tube, lightly inflated, into the outer tire and put it back onto the rim. Make sure the inner tube is not pinched anywhere.
• Slowly inflate the tire and check that it is seated properly in the rim without bulges or pinches.

Want to know more? Read our blogs on how to patch your inner tube and how to patch your outer tire.

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