What Does Threads Per Inch (TPI) Actually Mean?
Ever seen a tire label boasting 120 TPI and wondered if that’s good, bad, or just marketing fluff? TPI (Threads Per Inch) refers to the number of threads woven into the tire’s casing. The higher the number, the finer the threads, making the tire more supple, flexible, and lightweight. Lower TPI tires have thicker threads, which makes them more durable but less supple.
TPI Breakdown:
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High TPI (100-170 TPI) – Lighter, more responsive, and provides better road feel. Perfect for road racing and high-performance mountain biking.
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Low TPI (30-60 TPI) – More durable, tougher, and resistant to cuts. Great for mountain biking and commuting where durability is king.
Tire Compounds: What’s Actually in Your Rubber?
Bike tires aren’t just rubber—they’re a mix of different compounds that affect grip, durability, and rolling resistance. Choosing the right compound is just as important as picking the right tire tread.
Types of Tire Compounds:
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Soft Compound: Sticky, grippy, and great for traction, but wears out faster. Found on high-end mountain bike tires like Maxxis 3C compounds.
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Hard Compound: Lasts longer and rolls faster but sacrifices grip. Great for rear tires and long-distance road riding.
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Dual & Triple Compound: The best of both worlds—harder center for low rolling resistance, softer edges for grip in corners. Found in brands like Schwalbe Addix, Continental Black Chili, and Michelin Gum-X.
What Makes a Good Road Bike Tire?
Road cyclists are obsessed with speed, grip, and puncture resistance. Here’s what makes a great road tire: ✔ High TPI for a smooth, supple ride ✔ Low rolling resistance for maximum speed ✔ Puncture protection (because flats are never fun) ✔ Grip in both dry and wet conditions
Top Road Tire Brands to Check Out:
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Continental – Makers of the famous GP5000, the gold standard in road tires.
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Pirelli – Yes, the F1 tire brand! Their P Zero Race tires are fast and grippy.
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Michelin – Known for innovation, their Power Road series offers top-tier performance.
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Challenge – Handmade, ultra-supple tires for those who demand perfection.
What Makes a Good Mountain Bike Tire?
Mountain bikers need tires that can handle rocks, roots, and rowdy terrain. Here’s what matters: ✔ Durability & sidewall protection (to avoid tire gashes mid-ride) ✔ Grip & traction (especially for aggressive cornering and wet conditions) ✔ Tubeless compatibility (because no one likes pinch flats) ✔ Tread pattern suited for your terrain
Top MTB Tire Brands to Check Out:
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Maxxis – The go-to brand for aggressive trail and downhill tires like the Minion DHF/DHR.
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Schwalbe – Their Magic Mary and Nobby Nic tires are legends in enduro and XC.
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Continental – The Der Kaiser and Trail King offer grip and durability.
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Michelin – The Wild Enduro series is becoming a favorite among aggressive riders.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Tire
Choosing the right tire depends on how you ride, where you ride, and how much you value grip vs. durability vs. speed. Whether you're chasing road KOMs or bombing down rocky descents, picking the right TPI, compound, and brand can make all the difference.
Ready to roll? Check out the best selection of road and mountain bike tires at MoreBikes.ca and find your perfect match! 🚴♂️🔥