When it comes to changing your bike tyres, the different sizes can often be overwhelming.

Whether you’re upgrading your tyres for better performance or simply changing worn-out or blown tyres, we’re here to make every kind of replacement simple.

To figure out which size tyre you need, look for the sizing information (width and diameter) on your existing tyre. This is typically found on the sidewall of the tyre, either printed in a bright colour or embossed into the rubber.

ETRTO Sizing

Tyre sizes can be shown in two ways: traditional sizing or ETRTO.

ETRTO displays the tyre width first, followed by the rim diameter. The rim diameter is measured differently, so the number may look unfamiliar, but the tyre will still fit the same wheel. For example:

25-622

In ETRTO terms, the 622 refers to a standard 700c road bike rim with a 25mm tyre width. In traditional sizing, this would be labelled as a ‘700 x 25c’ tyre. Most of the tyres stocked at Halfords are sized using the traditional system, but it’s always useful to understand the difference between ETRTO and traditional sizing so that you don’t get caught out.

Road Bike Tyre Sizes

ETRTO Number

700c Road Bike Wheels                    Dimensions

  • 18-622                                              700 x 18c
  • 23-622                                              700 x 23c
  • 25-622                                              700 x 25c
  • 28-622                                              700 x 28c
  • 32-622                                              700 x 32c
  • 37-622                                              700 x 35c
  • 47-622                                              700 x 47c

26” Mountain Bike Wheels             

  • 50-559                                             26 x 1.9
  • 54-559                                             26 x 2.1
  • 55-559                                             26 x 2.2
  • 58-559                                             26 x 2.35

27.5 (650b) Mountain Bike Wheels

  • 50-584                                            5 x 1.95
  • 54-584                                            5 x 2.1
  • 57-584                                            5 x 2.25

29” Mountain Bike Wheels

  • 50-622                                           29 x 2.0
  • 54-622                                           29 x 2.1
  • 55-622                                           29 x 2.2

What tyre pressure do I need?

Different tyres all require their own pressure level. For example, low air volume tyres like road tyres require a higher pressure for better speed and agility, making them ideal for road racing. Higher air volume tyres, such as MTB and trail tyres, typically run lower pressure to help increase grip on slippery trails and also to absorb impact if jumps and tricks are being performed. For more help setting your tyres to the perfect PSI, check out our handy bike tyre pressure guide.

What are the different types of bike tyres?

Clincher Tyres

Most bikes use clincher tyres, they feature a bead that hooks securely onto the rim to keep the tyre in place. Traditionally, this bead is made from wire, which is strong and durable, but it is a little heavier. Higher-end clincher tyres use a folding Kevlar bead instead, offering the same strength while reducing weight and making the tyre easier to fit and carry, which is what most road cyclists and time trialists tend to prefer when trying to keep their weight down in order to pick up more speed.

Tubeless Tyres

Unlike standard clincher tyres, which need an inner tube to hold air, tubeless or tubeless-ready tyres create an airtight seal directly with a compatible rim. This means no inner tube is required, simply inflate the tyre and you’re ready to ride.

Tubeless setups are especially popular on mountain bikes as they can be run at lower pressures for better grip and comfort, while also reducing the risk of punctures.

E-Bike Tyres

Electric bike tyres are specially designed to handle the extra power, weight and higher speeds of E-Bikes. They provide better durability, stability and safety compared to standard bike tyres, so it’s important you always use the correct E-Bike tyre if you’re riding electric.

Many e-bike tyres are speed rated:

  • E-25 – safe up to 25 km/h (EU pedal-assist limit)
  • E-50 – safe up to 50 km/h (for high-speed pedelecs)

Tubular Tyres

Tubular tyres are a specialist option mainly used on road bikes. The inner tube is built into the tyre itself, and the whole tyre is glued onto a dedicated tubular rim. They’re lightweight and offer excellent ride quality, but they’re more expensive and less practical for everyday riding, so they’re more popular amongst the pros.

If you need help fitting your new tyres onto your bike, then we offer a tyre fitting service, where we will remove, fit and inflate your new tyres for you for a small fee (£10 per tyre).

If you’re looking to upgrade your current tyres, or replace your old ones why not head over to Halfords.com to explore our range of clincher, tubeless and E-Bike tyres or pop down to your local store and one of our helpful experts will be happy to help.