Forget 28mm, much wider tyres are coming - Cyclingnews

Source: https://www.cyclingnews.com/news/forget-28mm-much-wider-tyres-are-coming/

Sentiment: The sentiment is predominantly **positive**, with a hint of excitement. The headline uses strong language ("Forget 28mm, Much Wider Tyres Are Coming") suggesting a significant and positive improvement. The phrase "Are You Ready for the Ride?" further reinforces this positive and excited tone, implying anticipation for an exciting development. While the text mentions the past dominance of 28mm tires, it frames this as a precursor to a better, more advanced technology.

Summary

Cycling's 28mm tire dominance is being challenged by wider tires (30-35mm+) due to lower rolling resistance at lower pressures, facilitated by tubeless technology and optimized rim designs. Wider tires offer enhanced comfort, grip, versatility (including gravel), and puncture resistance. However, frame and wheel compatibility, potential aerodynamic penalties, and mudguard clearance need consideration. Check frame clearance and experiment with pressures. The shift reflects a deeper understanding of performance, prioritizing comfort and versatility alongside speed. The cycling world is embracing wider tires for a more comfortable and efficient ride.

Full Article

## Forget 28mm, Much Wider Tyres Are Coming - Are You Ready for the Ride?

The cycling world is constantly evolving, and one of the most dynamic areas of change is tyre technology. For years, the 28mm tyre has reigned supreme, widely considered the sweet spot for road cycling – a balance of comfort, speed, and rolling resistance. But **forget** everything you thought you knew. The winds of change are blowing, and they're bringing with them a trend that's challenging the established order: much **wider tyres are coming**, and they might just revolutionize your riding experience.

This isn't just a passing fad; it's a fundamental shift driven by advancements in tyre design, wheel technology, and a deeper understanding of rolling resistance. So, should you ditch your trusty 28mm tyres and embrace the burgeoning world of wider rubber? Let's dive in and explore what this trend means for you, your bike, and your riding style.

**The Rise of the 28mm: A Brief History Lesson**

Before we look forward, it's crucial to understand how we arrived at the 28mm tyre's dominance. For a long time, narrow tyres, like 23mm and even 21mm, were the gold standard. The logic was simple: narrower meant less contact patch with the road, theoretically reducing rolling resistance and increasing speed.

However, advancements in tyre compounds and research debunked this long-held belief. Wider tyres, specifically the 28mm, offered several key advantages:

* **Reduced Rolling Resistance:** Counterintuitively, wider tyres at lower pressures can actually reduce rolling resistance. This is because they deform less, absorbing road imperfections more efficiently and minimizing energy loss.

* **Increased Comfort:** Wider tyres offer a more comfortable ride by absorbing vibrations and bumps, making long rides less fatiguing.

* **Improved Grip:** A larger contact patch provides more grip, particularly in corners and wet conditions, enhancing handling and control.

These benefits propelled the 28mm tyre to the forefront, becoming the preferred choice for many cyclists, from recreational riders to professional racers. For a long time, it seemed the debate was settled.

**Why Wider? The Science Behind the Shift**

So, if the 28mm tyre is so good, why are we even considering going wider? The answer lies in continued research and development, particularly in the areas of tyre construction, rim design, and aerodynamics.

Here's a breakdown of the key factors driving the move towards **wider tyres**:

* **Lower Pressures, Higher Efficiency:** Wider tyres allow you to run significantly lower pressures without risking pinch flats (snake bites). This lower pressure translates to a larger contact patch, improved comfort, and surprisingly, lower rolling resistance. The tyre essentially "floats" over imperfections instead of being deflected by them.

* **Tubeless Technology:** The rise of tubeless tyre technology is inextricably linked to the wider tyre movement. Tubeless tyres offer several advantages, including the ability to run even lower pressures, reduced risk of punctures, and improved rolling resistance. The absence of an inner tube allows the tyre to deform more freely, further enhancing comfort and efficiency.

* **Optimized Rim Design:** Modern rim designs are specifically engineered to work in conjunction with wider tyres. Wider internal rim widths provide better support for the tyre, creating a more stable and predictable ride. They also improve the tyre's aerodynamic profile, reducing drag.

* **Data-Driven Performance:** Extensive testing and analysis have consistently shown that wider tyres, particularly at lower pressures, can outperform narrower tyres in terms of rolling resistance, comfort, and grip. These findings are compelling manufacturers and riders alike to embrace the trend.

**Beyond 28mm: What Widths Are We Talking About?**

While the exact definition of "much wider" is subjective, we're generally talking about tyres in the 30mm to 35mm range, and even beyond in some cases. Gravel bikes have been pushing this trend for years, but it's now making its way into the road cycling mainstream.

* **30-32mm:** This is becoming increasingly common on modern endurance road bikes. These widths offer a noticeable improvement in comfort and grip without sacrificing too much in terms of aerodynamics or rolling resistance.

* **32-35mm:** These widths are ideal for riders who prioritize comfort and stability, particularly on rough roads or gravel paths. They're also a great option for heavier riders who need the extra support and volume.

* **35mm+:** This is where things start to blur between road and gravel. These widths provide maximum comfort and grip, making them suitable for mixed-terrain riding or tackling particularly challenging road conditions.

**The Benefits of Embracing Wider Tyres**

So, why should you consider making the switch to **wider tyres**? Here's a summary of the key advantages:

* **Enhanced Comfort:** This is perhaps the most noticeable benefit. Wider tyres at lower pressures soak up road vibrations and bumps, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride, especially over longer distances. **Forget** the bone-jarring rides of the past!

* **Improved Rolling Resistance:** Counterintuitive as it may seem, wider tyres can actually reduce rolling resistance. The key is running them at lower pressures, allowing them to deform more efficiently and minimize energy loss.

* **Increased Grip:** A larger contact patch provides more grip, particularly in corners and wet conditions. This enhances handling and control, making you a more confident and safer rider.

* **Greater Versatility:** Wider tyres open up a wider range of riding possibilities. You can confidently tackle rough roads, gravel paths, and even light off-road trails.

* **Reduced Risk of Punctures:** Wider tyres at lower pressures are less prone to pinch flats. This is because they can absorb impacts more effectively, reducing the likelihood of the tyre being pinched between the rim and the road.

**Are Wider Tyres Right for You? Considerations and Potential Drawbacks**

While the benefits of wider tyres are compelling, it's important to consider whether they're the right choice for you and your bike. Here are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

* **Frame Clearance:** The most important factor is whether your frame has sufficient clearance for wider tyres. Check your frame manufacturer's recommendations to ensure compatibility. If your frame is designed for 25mm tyres, squeezing in a 32mm tyre may not be possible.

* **Wheel Compatibility:** Ensure that your wheels are compatible with the tyre widths you're considering. Wider internal rim widths are generally recommended for wider tyres.

* **Aerodynamics:** While modern rim designs are optimized for wider tyres, there may be a slight aerodynamic penalty compared to narrower tyres, especially at higher speeds. However, this penalty is often outweighed by the gains in comfort and rolling resistance.

* **Weight:** Wider tyres typically weigh slightly more than narrower tyres. However, this weight difference is often negligible and less significant than the gains in performance and comfort.

* **Mudguards/Fenders:** Adding mudguards can be problematic with wider tyres, as you need sufficient clearance between the tyre and the mudguard.

**Making the Switch: Tips for Choosing the Right Tyre**

If you're considering making the switch to **wider tyres**, here are a few tips to help you choose the right tyre for your needs:

* **Check Your Frame Clearance:** As mentioned earlier, this is the most important factor. Measure the clearance in your frame and fork to ensure that the tyre you're considering will fit.

* **Consider Your Riding Style:** Are you a recreational rider who prioritizes comfort, or a competitive racer who's looking for every possible advantage? Your riding style will influence the ideal tyre width.

* **Think About Your Terrain:** Do you primarily ride on smooth pavement, or do you encounter rough roads, gravel paths, or mixed terrain? The type of terrain will dictate the appropriate tyre width and tread pattern.

* **Read Reviews:** Read reviews and compare different tyre models to get a better understanding of their performance characteristics.

* **Experiment with Tyre Pressure:** Once you've installed your new tyres, experiment with different pressures to find the optimal balance of comfort, rolling resistance, and grip. Start with the manufacturer's recommended pressure and adjust from there. Remember, the benefits of wider tyres are amplified by running lower pressures.

**The Future of Road Cycling: Embracing the Wider Revolution**

The trend towards **wider tyres** is more than just a passing fad; it's a reflection of a fundamental shift in our understanding of rolling resistance, comfort, and overall performance. As technology continues to advance and our knowledge deepens, we can expect to see even more innovation in tyre design and rim technology. The days of prioritizing narrow tyres solely for perceived speed are fading.

So, **forget** clinging to outdated notions about tyre width. The data is clear: **wider tyres are coming**, and they offer a compelling combination of comfort, speed, and versatility. Are you ready to embrace the wider revolution and experience the ride of your life? The future of road cycling is here, and it's rolling on wider rubber.