Road bikes gained popularity in Europe, but with the success of American Lance Armstrong road bikes have become a common item in the US also. Speed, speed, speed and not necessarily comfort are where these bikes excel. The rider is bent over to reach the handlebars providing an aerodynamic profile . This position also allows for the greatest use of the power source namely the riders legs. The bike has no suspension and rides along on concrete or asphalt. The tire is super thin and under great pressure and it is the only thing that separates the rider from the hard and rough riding surface.

Research, development, construction and design are only a part of the success of a road bike. The rubber may very well be the most important part of the tire. It is manufactured for the proper texture, firmness and consistency. Starting with the rubber helps ensure the best product for the rider.

Dual construction of the road bike tire means an inner and an outer layer. Nylon-fibers make up the inner layer and are counted as threads per square inch or TSI. The more TSI count the lighter the tire but the higher the cost.

The outer layer is the covering and typically these tires have no tread. That is they are slick. There are several reasons for this, one tread increases rolling resistance and thereby slows your speed. Also tread is not needed if the race is on concrete or pavement as is often the case. There is nothing to be gained and actually something significant to lose when adding tread. It does not enhance traction but it does increase rolling resistance and therefore reduces speed.

As you may know road bike tires may be purchases as clinchers or tubular. The merits of each will not be discussed here since there are many loyalist on both sides. Basically clinchers have both a tube and a tire and tubulars do not. How they adhere to the rim is also different. There is also a choice on valves, Presta versus Schrader. Likewise both have advantages which will be discussed at another time.

Now a quick mention of tubular tires since they are used most often by professional riders in races. The tire is lighter and adheres to the rim with glue. Generally speaking the flats are quicker to change and may lose air more slowly allowing for a controlled stop.

These tires come in the standard sizes regardless of which tire you choose. They come in metric sizes and the diameter is 700mm. If you are riding an older model of bike some companies still make the 27 inch tire, but some tires may be difficult to find. You may also choose to go with a smaller diameter tire on your front wheel. This helps with aerodynamics. You may choose 23, 25 and 28 mm as they are the most common widths for road bike tires. The 28 mm is the most commonly ordered.

Getting a flat is no fun, it takes away from your primary purpose and that is riding. It may leave you stranded miles from help. To prevent this you can use liners, puncture resistant tires, a sealant or some sort of foam insulation. For those riding with a chase vehicle this is not a concern. However for the weekend rider one of the above options may be well worth some research .

The prevalence of online bike supply sites makes it easier to research and select the road bike tire that is right for you. Be forewarned though some sites will be a better match for you than others, Seek out professional riders or those with lots of experience so you are assured of the right product for you, because it is unlikely they will allow returns on a tire that has been ridden for a day.