What Tire Width Should I Use for Mountain Biking?

The width of a tire you should use for mountain biking depends on the type of terrain you will be riding on and your personal riding style.

• For cross-country riding on mostly smooth trails, a tire width of 2.1 inches to 2.25 inches is a good choice. These tires provide a good balance of traction and rolling resistance.

• For trail riding on a mix of smooth and rough terrain, a tire width of 2.25 inches to 2.4 inches is a good choice. These tires provide a little more traction and stability on rough terrain, but still have good rolling resistance.

• For enduro and downhill riding on very rough terrain, a tire width of 2.5 inches or wider is a good choice. These tires provide maximum traction and stability, but have more rolling resistance.

It's worth noting that wider tires provide more traction and stability but can slow you down on smooth terrain. Narrower tires will roll faster on smooth terrain, but may not provide as much traction and stability on rough terrain. It's also important to consider the width of your rims and the size of your frame when choosing tire width.

Ultimately, the best tire width for you will depend on your riding style and the type of terrain you will be riding on. It's a good idea to experiment with different tire widths to see what works best for you.