Tire Optimizer
The fastest tires for your weight and terrain
Use this calculator to determine the optimum size and width tires to use on your bike. On firmer surfaces, the goal is minimizing rolling resistance; on softer surfaces, the goal is maintaining traction or floatation. In all cases, the pressure and tire width are high enough to avoid most pinch flats. This calculator is intended to provide consistent performance for lightweight juniors, loaded tandems, and everyone in between. Clydesdales, athenas, cyclotourists, tandem teams, bikepackers, and gravel riders should all be able to find tire recommendations here. Consider these recommendations here to be a good starting point for further experimentation. Because the optimization curve is a gradual continuum, if your current tires are already pretty close (within 10%) to the recommended width, you aren’t likely to notice a difference by switching. If yo just want to know how much air to put in your current tires, use the Tire Pressure Calculator. Â
NOTE: This calculator assumes that the weight load is evenly split on the front and rear tire. This is a good assumptions for track, triathlon, time trial, and tandem bikes. For single-rider road and gravel bikes, use slightly less pressure or a slightly narrower tire in the front. For single-rider mountain bikes, use slightly lower pressure in the front tire than the rear.
WARNING: Do not exceed the pressure ratings printed on the tire sidewall and the rim. Consider using wider tires or tires with a higher pressure rating if you’re at the limit.