🔍 Technique and terminology, to find your p'tits
Deciphering the technical jargon becomes essential when it comes to choosing bike tires with a clear conscience. Here are a few concepts we've deciphered so that choosing tires is no longer a headache, but an integral part of preparing for a bikepacking adventure.
The ETRTO standard for good bicycle tires
Created in 1964, the ETRTO standard aims to bring order to the sometimes chaotic world of tires and rims, by harmonizing standards for seamless interchangeability across Europe.
The ETRTO standard specifies the exact tire size, focusing on the inside diameter of the rim and the outside diameter of the tire (the width of the rim). This precision is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises on the road.
Here's a concrete example: an ETRTO 622x19 tire means that the inside rim diameter is 622 mm and the rim width is 19 mm.
In addition to compatibility, the ETRTO standard plays a key role in tire performance. A tire well matched to its rim ensures a better ride, optimum comfort, and adequate pressure, vital elements for a successful trip, whether on a light electric bike or a sturdy mountain bike.
It also guides in the choice of accessories such as inner tubes, rim tape and tie-rod, guaranteeing a hassle-free bikepacking adventure (at least on these points 😅).
Tubeless system prevents you from ending up on your backside
When it comes to tires, the Tubeless system often steals the show. Tubeless, with no inner tube and preventive liquid acting as an anti-puncture agent, this system is hailed by many bikepackers.
The advantages of Tubeless are considerable:
- significantly fewer punctures,
- the ability to ride at lower pressures for royal comfort
- and a grip worthy of a gecko. 🦎
For gravel or rough terrain enthusiasts, this really is the ideal tire.
Fitting a tubeless tire is rather tricky for novices, not least because of its messy preventive fluid. The price is also a little higher than traditional tires, but you have to think in terms of long-term investment: fewer punctures and greater comfort.
TPI, three letters that change everything in bikepacking
The TPI (Treads Per Inch) value of tires indicates the density of the threads in the carcass of a bicycle tire, an essential characteristic for connoisseurs seeking perfection on two wheels.
The rule is simple: the higher the TPI, the more the tire is ready to embrace every contour of the terrain with great strength. However, like haute couture, a thin casing may be more delicate and prone to punctures, but lighter and less grippy, so better suited to smooth roads.
In concrete terms, for mountain bikers, a high TPI, up to 300, is recommended for rough terrain. For road cyclists, a lower TPI turns a bumpy road into a red carpet rolled out beneath their wheels.
In short, if weight reduction is the goal (isn't that the preferred topic of discussion in bikepacking? 😅 ), a low TPI is the ideal companion. On the other hand, for those brave enough to brave wilderness trails, a higher TPI ensures greater resistance. And for mixed terrain, a mid-range is the perfect balance between lightness and robustness.
🌏 Some makes and models to help you choose the right tires
Here are a few essential brands when it comes to choosing bicycle tires for bikepacking.
Schwalbe, the bikepacking tire giant
Schwalbe stands out as a giant, not only for its performance but also for its commitment to the environment. The brand, known for its robust, reliable tires, is taking a big step forward with the launch of the Green Marathon.
Schwalbe's Green Marathon is not just a tire. It's the result of an ambitious process of recycling and innovation. By using used tires as a raw material, Schwalbe proves that it is possible to combine performance with ecological responsibility. With a 34% reduction in CO² emissions compared to its predecessor, this tire marks a turning point in the industry.
Schwalbe's new visual identity, revealed at Eurobike 2023, reflects this transition towards a more sustainable approach.
It's worth noting that the Green Marathon is currently made from 70% recycled and renewable materials. It's a promising start, but the road to a fully sustainable tire is still a long one. With their Green Guard puncture protection strip, made in part from recycled latex and fair-trade rubber, Schwalbe is taking a step towards this goal. (one small step for Schwalbe, one giant leap for the planet 🍃)
Hutchinson and Pirelli, ace innovators on two wheels
When it comes to innovation in the world of bicycle tires, Hutchinson and Pirelli stand out as leaders.
Hutchinson, with its rich history of innovation, has always been at the forefront of high-performance tire development. Their Touareg model, for example, is a benchmark for gravel cyclists. Featuring well-designed studs for optimum grip on a variety of terrains, this tire is the perfect choice for those looking to explore off the beaten track.
Pirelli, on the other hand, brings its motorsport heritage to bear in creating bicycle tires that combine speed and safety. Their Pirelli Cinturato range is specially designed for road bikes, offering superior grip even on wet surfaces.
Both brands are also committed to the production of tubeless-ready tires, an increasingly popular choice among bikepacking enthusiasts for their puncture resistance and enhanced comfort.
Maxxis and Vittoria, versatility for the bikepacker
Maxxis, with its diversified catalog, offers tires that excel in a wide range of conditions. Their famous Maxxis Ikon, for example, is a mountain bike tire that combines lightness and robustness. Their reinforced bead technology and well-thought-out lug design strike an absolute balance between grip and puncture resistance.
Vittoria is not to be outdone. Known for its constant innovation, the brand has launched the Vittoria Thundero, a tire designed for mixed terrain. With a structure adapted for optimum performance on a variety of surfaces, these tires are a wise choice for cyclists looking for a versatile tire.
🤔 FAQ about choosing bike tires for bikepacking
What type of tire is best for a bikepacking bike with a child's frame?
For a bikepacking bike intended for a child, prefer lightweight but sturdy tires. Models with good grip and puncture protection should also be prioritized. Make sure the tire diameter (in inches) matches the child's bike frame.
Is it possible to find specific bikepacking tires for electric bikes?
Yes, some tires are specially designed for electric bikes. These tires, often referred to as "E-bike ready" or "E-bike compatible", offer increased strength to support the extra weight and higher speed of electric bikes.
