28MM TYRES

Wider tyres are taking over and you can see why with this lively dozen

The days of the 23mm are truly numbered. The sweet spot of rolling speed, comfort and weight is a 28mm tyre, which offers wide compatibility with most road bikes

When it comes to tyres, it seems bigger is better. Wider tyres have never been more fashionable than right now, fuelled by modern road bikes accommodating wider tyres and reflecting the way many people ride bikes – over long distances with more comfort and a small side order of dirt.

The days of the 23mm are truly numbered. The sweet spot of rolling speed, comfort and weight is a 28mm tyre, which offers wide compatibility with most road bikes, so I’ve gathered together 12 tyres to see which you should spend your money on. I’ve picked a mix of tubed and tubeless clincher tyres, but nearly all these tyres are offered in both versions, so you can choose the system that matches your preference. Wider tyres are an easy and obvious way to increase the comfort of your bike. With a greater volume of air between you and rough roads, you’ll feel more comfortable and less fatigued from being bounced around as the tyre provides suspension benefits.

Wider tyres also offer lower rolling resistance due to the smaller, rounder contact patch, which results in less energy lost through friction as well as less sidewall deformation. Bigger tyres also provide more traction in a wide range of situations and fend off flats better. Wider tyres are heavier and less aero but the positives outweigh the negatives, especially for long-distance cyclists who demand comfort.