Bicycles are amazing; they cost you no fuel and help you keep in shape! But they come in various models, and your younger version might be surprised at how many more bicycle models have popped up in the world.
One such type is a fixie. As the name suggests, a fixie has its wheels fixed. So, unlike regular bicycles, where the wheels would move with momentum after peddling, this bike does not.
However, you need the best fixie tires to see this effect; otherwise, the pressure will end up damaging the tire.
The key mechanism is that the peddle and the wheel moves together on this bike.
Knowing more about these tires will be beneficial for the bike, so keep on reading.
Table of Contents
Best Tires for Fixies Comparison
| Model | Brand | Bike Type | Material | Item Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Continental Gatorskin Bike Tire | Continental | Multi-use | Rubber | 2.36 x 2.36 x 19.69 inches |
| Freedom ThickSlick Tire | Freedom | Road Bike | Rubber | 27 x 27 x 1 inches |
| Retrospec Mantra 700c Deep V | Retrospec | Track Bike, Road Bike | Rubber | 35.7 x 27.5 x 7.9 inches |
| Vittoria Zaffiro II Wire | Vittoria | Road Bike | Rubber | 27 x 27 x 1 inches |
5 Best Fixie Tires Review 2021
Hunting a fixie tire bike might be troublesome as you cannot distinguish between the useful ones and the ones that are good for nothing. But do not worry, as we’ve put together a list of five for you.
Continental Gatorskin Bike Tire
Joining a competition with your bi-cycle? Need a tire that can give back the equal amount of energy you are exerting? Then you must try the bike tires from Continental Gatorskin.
They designed their tires specifically for fast riding applications and technologies such as the PolyX breaker has enabled them to do so.
This tire has a tight woven polymer covering, which increases the density of the shell.
Thus, it becomes resistant to punctures. It also has Duraskin for sidewall protection.
So, when you apply force at speed, the framework does not collapse; instead, it works with the peddle flawlessly.
The entire tire also has a carbon black mixture material that makes the product sturdy.
It also ensures that the rider gets a maximum grip, so that they do not slip while making sharp turns.
It is also available in wire beading and as a folding version. So, you can enjoy riding the tire while you are on tour as well.
PROS
CONS
Freedom ThickSlick Tire
Tires, in general, can be very expensive, and fixie tires that need double the strength are undoubtedly more costly.
But if you are new to the fixie world and just wanted to practice riding such a bike, then these tires from Freedom will be an excellent pick.
These products will let you enjoy and demonstrate a fixie without having to go all-in with the price. So, you can wear the item out without worrying.
However, it does not mean that you will have to keep buying the ThickSlick frequently.
It might be affordable, but it still has double layerings and other protective measures to make sure that it can take the stress of heavy peddling.
The product has an outer layer of ThickSlick specialized rubber over standard rubber. Also, the standard one comes with a thicker depth.
Thus, you get more grip on the road alongside superior puncture protection.
These tires are especially great for skidding as well. The break-system is very active, allowing you to make as many oblique or sudden turns as you want.
Despite its double layers, the tire is very lightweight, about 1.2 pounds. So, fitting it on the bike will be a piece of cake.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Top-quality internal Gear Hub
Wheel Set, Front and Fixed Gear Flip-Flop Rear Wheels
If you are unsure about the tire sizes on the front and rear end but still want a fully functional fixie, then you will be quite satisfied with the wheelset by Fixie Wheels.
The bright pink sidewall tire is capable of doing more than serving looks.
The wheelset comes with two wheels that are in perfect sizes for both ends of the bike.
You will also receive tubes for inflating as it is a tube tire. So, naturally, the chances of causing puncture reduces.
Moreover, the hot-pink part has a nylon rim-strip that creates a seal. So, even if the tire comes in contact with sharp objects, it will not leak or explode.
The synthetic strip also protects the tube from metal expansion.
These tires are amazing for speed riding as well since they have fixed cogs, which are 16-ft and flip-flop hubs.
They slightly reduce the need to apply force on the peddle, thus preserving energy and providing speed in the long term.
PROS
CONS
Suggested Topic: Gravel Bikes Under $3000 Buying Guide
Retrospec Mantra 700c Deep V Fixed-Gear/Single-Speed Wheelset
The performance of a fixie depends a lot on how much energy you can exert on the cycle.
So, you need a vehicle that is light enough to ride but still durable. Luckily, we have just the model for you.
This Mantra 700c model by Retrospec is perfect if you want speed-riding as it has a light tire body.
The aluminum framework makes the rim as well as the supporting hub-frame lightweight.
Thus, the weight of the entire tire also goes down. However, aluminum also gives it rigidity, so the rim does not crack easily. You can easily take a fixie with these tires for a mountain hike.
The narrow 700c tire can easily work around rocks and boulders and give you a smoother ride.
Maintaining this model is also easy as it has a flip-flop hub that you can easily replace.
You can also apply longer breaks to this tire if you want to do freestyle movements. The flip-flop hub will assist you in that process.
PROS
CONS
Related Review: Commuter Bike Tires
Vittoria Zaffiro II Wire
Finding a fixie tire suitable for every season can be tough since it already is an odd bike to ride.
However, if your current location has unpredictable weather and it is sunny one day and raining the next, then you need the Zaffiro II.
It is the perfect all-weather fixie tire that has aramid 3D compound for superior grip.
So, even if you are riding through muddy wet streets, the tire will support you. Also, it pushes through the obstacle so that you can keep peddling.
As a result, you need to put much less force with this model as opposed to other fixie tires.
The aramid covering also protects the exterior from extreme heat build-up that can happen from continuous friction from the road.
You can also achieve superior cornering as it has quality PRB material under the tread. Moreover, the tread allows low rolling resistance, consequently reducing the amount of force on peddling.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Folding Bike Under $500 Review
What to Look for Before Buying?
Since this type of two-wheeler is such a new form, chances are you might end up buying a tire for it and not liking it. So, observe the factors below before purchasing.
Endurance
If you want to feel one with the road or are a fitness junkie, then fixie bike is perfect for you.
However, you need tires that can match up with the intensity of such a bike. Since you have to keep paddling, make sure that the tire can provide mileage.
In another perspective, it is probably wise not to indulge in a fixie if you like uphill journeys, or the road is rocky, as it will create many problems in movement.
But if you do get a fixie, the tire compatible with such roads might lessen the burden a bit.
Grip
For bikes that solely depend on peddling, you need tires that offer not only maximum control but also reduce a bit of resistance.
So, in case of a fixie, it won’t benefit you if the tire has a strong grip as it will act as a hindrance.
However, if you reside in a rainy location, getting fixie tires with higher resistance or grip will be the ideal choice.
Tubes
Although fixie tires are traditionally tube tires, you can still find some that are tubeless.
Now, you need to understand that both of these types offer different benefits as well as some disadvantages.
So, based on your region and routine, go for tubeless or tube tires that will best suit your interests.
Also, if you want more speed, then try tires that have aluminum wiring, as it decreases the weight of the tire and focuses the energy more on speed.
Compound
The tire compound can reduce a lot of pressure from the rim. Superior tread compound, layers of protective rubber, or a synthetic rim can shield the surface of the tire from sharp objects and effectively reduce the chances of causing a leak.
Thus, the maintenance over time will decrease, and you can have a smoother ride every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these tires have cogs?
Yes, all these models will have cogs, but the size will vary based on the brand.
Can I stretch the tire to fit the rear wheel?
You can, but that will reduce the ruggedness of the tires, making them more fragile.
What is the maximum PSI for these tires?
It will vary from tire to tire, but generally, the PSI level should range from 50 to 100.
Why do these tires have synthetic nylon?
The nylon protects the sidewall from sharp external objects and metal expansion.
How do I install a fixie tire?
Align the valve hole and spoke holes and cover the tube with rim tape. Fit the rim with the tire gently, and when it fully covers the rim, fill it up with air.
Final Word
The best fixie tires can only improve your experience with fixie bikes and make the ride more relaxed, secure, and enjoyable.
So, if you want all of those attributes in your tire, hurry up and get one from the list!
