What is a folding tire?
A folding bicycle tire is a tire that is lightweight and foldable compared to clincher tires due to its flexible Kevlar or Aramid belt and thin carcass. Folding tires are usually more expensive than clincher tires, but they are also lighter and easier to transport.
Folding tires are often preferred by road cyclists , mountain bikers and other cyclists who value weight savings and ease of handling. The folding belt allows the tire to be more compact and space-saving than a clincher tire, which is especially useful when carrying a spare tire on a bike tour or wanting to dismantle the tire for transport.
Folding tires also often perform better than clinchers because they can withstand higher air pressure and thus have lower rolling resistance. They also offer better traction and cornering grip due to the flexible casing and materials used.
What should you consider when buying folding tires?
If you use folding tires on your bike, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Installation : Make sure you install the folding tire correctly and make sure it is seated properly on the rim. Folding tires can be a little trickier to install than clinchers, so it's important to make sure you install them correctly to avoid flats or other problems.
Air pressure : Folding tires often have a higher air pressure range than clincher tires, so it's important to use the correct air pressure for your folding tire. Check the air pressure regularly to ensure optimal performance and durability.
Care : As with all tires, it is important to check your folding tire regularly for cracks, cuts or other damage. Clean the tire after rides and remove any small debris that may have penetrated the tire.
Compatibility : Make sure the folding tire you choose is compatible with your rim and bike frame. Folding tires can have different sizes and tread types, so it's important to make sure they're compatible with your bike.
Transport : Folding tires can be easily folded and transported, which is ideal if you are carrying a spare tire on a bike tour. However, be careful not to bend or damage the tire when folding it and carrying it in your bag or backpack.
By considering these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your folding tires and get optimal performance and durability.
Alternatives to folding tires
- Clincher: A cost-effective alternative that offers more stability, but comes at the expense of greater weight and less flexibility.
- Tubeless tires: Offer excellent puncture resistance and can be driven without a tube, but are more complex to install for the first time.
- Tubular tires: Ideal for racing cyclists who value optimal performance, but installation is complex and changing them in the event of a puncture is more difficult.
