The sort of tires you choose for your bike depends on what you use it for. Mountain bikes are used for many different things over different ground, and each discipline requires different tires. If you have the right tires for the job they will make it safer and improve your riding as well.
Tires come with either an inner tube to keep them inflated or they are tubeless,but the question is which kind should you use?
Most tubeless tires have a tough sidewall that locks into a sealed-bed rim. This kind of tires are hardy enough for rough terrain so they are good for downhill riding but they are expensive.
The benefits of an airtight seal and a durable, low pressure performance are outweighed by the cost. They also require a clean rim and tire to fit them, and a big pump to inflate them.
If a tire has to be replaced on a trail clean conditions are usually unavailable. Even with a CO2 cartridge pump you'll probably have to use an inner tube to get you home, where you can the repair the tire. Although large holes can mean the tire has to be written off, even though small holes can often be fixed.
Tubeless tires are also heavier, so if fast start times and riding speeds are required, pick a lighter tire. Tires with inner tubes are usually lighter and offer greater flexibility. They are available in more designs and tread styles, so finding the right one for your riding style might be easier as well.
You can get kits to convert tires from an inner tube to tubeless. These work by combining a latex-based filler liquid with a rubber rim strip that seals the inside of the tire and rim. You might have to top up the filler occasionally but it still costs less than buying a tubeless tire.
You still get most of the low pressure advantages of a tubeless tire but with a much bigger choice of rims and treads, and with only the initial kit cost and latex top-ups to pay for. They are also lighter although the same repair problems on the trail apply unfortunately.
Whichever kind of tire you choose, it is essential to replace your tires regularly. A blow out on a trail can cause injury to you or other riders or even cost you a competition. With proper maintenance and careful selection, your tires will make a massive difference to your riding.
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