60 TPI vs 120 TPI Tire – Which One Is Better?

While looking for high-quality tires for new adventures, one concern customers must keep in mind is whether they want 60 TPI or 120 TPI builds.

It may not seem like much, but there are many differences between the two.
Choosing between 60 TPI vs. 120 TPI tire may not be as easy as it seems.

At first, we may think the difference is merely on the price, but that’s not always the case.

In this article, we’ll review several tires under each category to draw a conclusion on which one is the better pick for you.

So, let’s start by talking about 60 TPI tires.

60 TPI vs 120 TPI Tire – Comparison 2020

Last update on 2020-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

60 TPI Tires

For casual riders that don’t focus too much on technicalities, the 60 TPI tire is more than an ideal pick for their rides.

This tire is affordable, effective under different environments, and quite comfortable to get you from point A to point B. Here’s what to expect.

Durability

The dual-ply build often featured in this tire is remarkable, making it a long-lasting bike component that hardly gets any damage.

Performance

Due to the incredible grip and improved handling, the 60 TPI tire provides the strength and ability to climb over those particularly tough rocky terrains. It’s a versatile product that won’t disappoint.

Affordable

Commonly, the 60 TPI tire is more affordable than the rest. Despite being a little heavier, the low prices offer riders a quick replacement during those desperate times.

Recommended 60 TPI Tires to Buy

The tire sounds great, doesn’t it? Let’s take a look at the options you should consider buying.

Maxxis Aggressor 29×2.3 EXO/TR Tire

When stock tires can’t put up with your demands anymore, here’s the one you need.

As a replacement, this 29in dual compound model brings out a significant improvement to handling, making your rides much more pleasant over a variety of surfaces.

Sure, the slightly heavyweight build is a bit noticeable during the assembly, but it won’t interfere with the bike’s performance.

While hitting the roads or trails, the experience is smooth and comfortable. Whether you ride over rocks or on-road surfaces, the results meet all expectations.

Besides improving handling, the grip over the terrains makes it easy to tackle most terrains.

Not only will you be able to go over the surfaces mentioned above, but the tire does well over rocks, roots, and more. The tire does fairly good on wet ground, but it isn’t the best for that.

Another convenient use for this tire is for climbing. Due to its high grip, most outdoor activities will be easy to complete despite irregularities on the ground.

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Clement X’Plor MSO Cyclocross Tire 700 x 32

This one is specifically designed for multiple weather and environmental conditions.

By featuring a combination of smooth-rolling center knobs and well-placed aggressive shoulder lugs, the traction delivered is outstanding.

Such a combination described above also provides higher durability. A resistant tire allows you to ride over gravel, trails, urban roads, and more comfortably, which is what this tire offers.

The flexibility is quite satisfying, as the tire fits gravel bikes, cyclocross, and more.

The sizes available are two, which are 700x40mm and 700x32mm. Customers can pick the right model that fits their bike perfectly, successfully improving handling, grip, and traction while riding.

While some riders pointed out the low pressure and width as two issues, most won’t have any issue with that.

Over asphalt, the tire can go smoothly, which is what concerns the majority of bike riders.

Despite its many benefits, the sidewalls are a bit stiff. It isn’t a deal-breaker problem, but you will notice it if you have a good eye for those observations.

Clement Cycling XC LXV 60 TPI 29-Inch x 2.1mm Tire

Here’s a tire that, while it isn’t the best for all terrains, it’d do perfectly over intermediate conditions.

What does that mean? Well, its resistant build makes it ideal for fast-paced races.

Additionally, handling and maneuverability are two other benefits you can expect during rides.

The tire features low knobs as well as fast-rolling center tread, effectively improving your bike’s performance.

Due to those two additions, riders will be able to reach high speeds without any concerns, as the high-volume and supple casing offer the shock absorption needed for rocks and roots.

Another feature to consider is the weight. With 560 grams, the tire isn’t necessarily heavy but not the lightest either.

Still, after assembly and once you’re on the road, the weight doesn’t become a problem that’d slow you down. Like most tires, riders get used to this one quickly.

Since the tire features supple sidewalls in the high-volume casing, as well as a folding bead, its performance is even better.

Plus, the 1mm-thick puncture protection works efficiently as a barrier, providing more resistance without adding weight.

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Maxxis Ardent EXO Dual-Compound Tire

While riders would prefer the previous tires for the rear end, this one is actually a good choice for the front.

This tire is pretty good for mixed terrains, including mild mud, dry, leaf, and wet surfaces.

Overall, it’s an efficient all-terrain tire that manages to put up a good performance.

The success of this tire is all due to its balanced performance. As you ride the bike, the grip received is outstanding.

Much to the riders’ comfort, they’ll encounter low rolling resistance that’d allow them to go fast if they need it.

When it comes to puncture resistance, the results were also satisfying. After hundreds of miles over rocky and other terrains, there haven’t been any visible rip or tear.

This one tire may be the perfect replacement to improve your rides when you’re looking to replace a faulty one.

The biggest issue you could face is probably the grip, which is less than ideal due to how unpredictable it can be.

Kenda Krusade 20 x 4.0 Tire 60 TPI Black

The final 60 TPI tire is from Kenda Krusade, and it offers flexibility to fit several types of bikes.

For instance, this product will even fit folding fat electric bikes! Due to its size, the tire guarantees effective traction over different terrains, guaranteeing a successful ride for most people.

Although less popular than the rest, the Kenda Krusade tire is a good choice because of its high quality that makes it reliable.

The build isn’t only resistant but also good looking. With a beautiful black color and steel tire bead, you’ll be able to succeed in your adventures.

Both the aesthetics and build features take the tire to the next level. On the road, the performance offers a good balance between speed and handling, opening up many opportunities for the riders.

When compared to the rest of the tires reviewed, this one has some issues in terms of durability.

It won’t last as much as the other, showing issues after a certain mileage. Either way, you can expect it to do well for months under casual use.

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120 TPI Tires

As you search for 120 TPI tires, you may encounter claims that they’re not as durable as the 60 TPI.

While that has some truth to it, it doesn’t mean that the former isn’t durable. Even after miles ran, the 120 TPI tires still have a lot to offer.

Lightweight

The build is quite lightweight, guaranteeing a more comfortable ride for those long roads.

Improved Supple Ride

This tire offers a supple ride that ensures you’ll be able to tackle almost anything over any conditions.

Expensive, But Worth It

When compared, the 120 TPI tire is often slightly more expensive than its counterparts. Still, the tire makes up for it with an incredible performance.

Recommended 120 TPI Tires to Buy

Let’s take a look at the top tires under this category.

Maxxis RAMBLER-700X38C Unisex Adult Tyre Tire

This tire features a tubeless-ready mounting, meaning the assembly won’t take much time or effort.

After acquiring it, you’ll be ready to tackle a variety of terrains, including pavement, trails, dirt, and more. The 120 TPI build guarantees efficiency on either of those terrains.

For a safe ride, the tire comes with SilkShield Technology. Regardless of the tough conditions, the tire maintains a stable performance with high resistance against damage.

This technology provides full protection to keep both the tire and the riders safe during outdoor adventures.

The tire does allow plenty of flexibility as well. With tightened central studs, the bike’s performance ensures optimal efficiency.

Additionally, the outer studs have a proper spaced design that provides complete control during turns.

Unfortunately, this product didn’t do as expected in snow. It’s perhaps the only issue you’d encounter in an otherwise perfect tire.

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Maxxis Chronicle EXO/TR Tire – 29 Plus

Sometimes, it can be tricky to find a tire that does well on all surfaces. This one, for instance, is one of the few exceptions.

The Maxxis Chronicle EXO tire will allow you to ride over loose gravel or snowy trails. Regardless of the terrain, the experience is equally comfortable.

Besides being versatile, the tire is highly efficient at tackling different conditions.

For instance, it’d do well whether you’re going fast or slow on both on-road and off-road locations.

Furthermore, the build offers consistent performance while doing long rides.

Due to the addition of a well-distributed tread pattern, the tire allows the fast-rolling dual-compound rubber to secure a tight grip.

The handling is significantly better, giving you the possibility to face tight corners or even climb sand.

Another benefit is the EXO sidewall protection. It efficiently wards off mid-ride flats, guaranteeing a safe ride for everybody.

The tire weighs 1050g, which is a little bit heavier than expected. It ranks similar to traditional mountain tires.

Maxxis Colossus 26 x 4.8 Tubeless-Ready 120 TPI Tire

By featuring tall and widely spaced knobs, this tire comes as one of the most effective picks for snow terrains.

The pattern featured keeps the tread clear of snow or dirt, allowing the knobs to dig in properly.

Even better, the special rubber compound stays pliable during freezing temperatures.

Similar to other tires, this one comes with EXO protection. It offers resistance to the sidewalls, which are capable of maintaining a good shape under the toughest environments.

Plus, the tubeless-ready build is convenient for riders that want to get on the trails quickly.

Maxxis promotes this product as a snow tire, and it does incredibly well over those areas.

Still, its flexibility will allow you to ride over a variety of trails and surfaces easily.

Both the handling and maneuvering are quite good due to the remarkable grip provided.

Truthfully, the tire offers outstanding performance with little drawback. If anything, the biggest issue you’d find in this product is the yellow letters printed. It doesn’t look that good on the unit.

Even then, that’s just a matter of style and personal preferences.

Clement Cycling Strada LGG Clincher 120 TPI Tire

While not the most impressive tire out there, the Strada LGG remains as a classic road tire for casual riding.

It features the unique Clement chevron pattern that provides outstanding grip, whether on wet or dry environments. Additionally, its lightweight build makes the tire comfy.

This product offers many advantages seen in high-quality Clement products.

For example, the LGG tire delivers a supple ride due to its comfortable and lightweight build.

Plus, the puncture-protection belt included under the tread secures a safe ride over tough trails.

With different width sizes available such as 23, 25, and 28mm, customers will be able to find one that fits their bikes. Other than the 120 TPI clincher, there’s also a 60 TPI model.

The 120 TPI clincher model features the dual-compound tread, with 70a in the center and soft 60a on the sides.

Undoubtedly, the only thing missing is the variety of colors and sizes. Other than that, the tire is an overall valuable pick that delivers an excellent performance.

Surly Lou 26 x 4.8″ 120 TPI Folding Tire

This front-specific 4.8” tire is suitable for 599mm (26-inch) rims. However, it still works on smaller rims, such as those with 65mm of width.

The tire features an aggressive design, making it a good choice for off-road trails.

Plus, the tread’s 7mm spied knobs come arranged in an effective pattern that meets expectations in terms of steering and braking.

Even over the toughest roads, the handling is comfortable, allowing riders to maneuver the bike and change course if needed without breaking a sweat.

For riders that enjoy new and different outdoor adventures, this tire will easily satisfy their demands.

The build features a supple, durable 120 TPI casing, which comes with folding Kevlar bead.

These features provide enough resistance and reliability to tackle all terrain types.

You may notice the sidewalls are a bit stiff, which could be an issue due to the lack of flexibility.

Some riders may like it, and some others may not. Either way, that particular problem is just a nitpick, as it won’t interfere with the tire’s performance.

60 TPI Tire or 120 TPI Tire?

After reading the reviews, we can tell that both the 60 and 120 TPI tires are highly effective for a variety of activities.

However, some differences are also clearly visible once you take a closer look at them.

What Does TPI Means, and Why Are 60 TPI Tires Any Good?

First, we have to clear what TPI means. The TPI designation refers to the threads per inch, which classifies the number of threads per inch featured in the tire casing.

Naturally, that means a 60 TPI tire could be slightly more durable than a 120 TPI, but the former is often heavier than the latter.

Taking a Closer Look at the 120 TPI Tires

On the other hand, we have 120 TPI tires. Now, we know that these may not be as durable as the 60 TPI, but their lightweight build makes the 120 TPI models more comfortable for specific riders.

Plus, one of the biggest benefits of the 120 TPI tire is that it offers a more supple ride, precisely to meet the rider’s expectations on what they expect from a versatile tire.

Which One to Choose?

You can go for 60 TPI if your purpose is to acquire an affordable tire that serves you well for a long time.

However, if you want the convenience of a better, smoother ride overall, then the 120 TPI is the one for you.

Sure, it may be a little more expensive, but the extra money paid is worth it.

Conclusion

That’s it for our 60 TPI vs. 120 TPI tire comparison. Remember, while we could recommend one or the other, it’s ultimately your decision to pick the right one.

Set a budget, consider the options, and choose wisely to start enjoying fun rides.