In this article, we will help you choose the best tyre for your bike by providing you with some useful information and tips.
Methodology – For this article, we have conducted thorough research on bike tire options in the Indian market, considering user reviews, expert insights, and performance metrics like grip and durability. A cost-benefit analysis factored in pricing and longevity. Tailoring recommendations to Indian riding conditions, I present a concise guide to help riders make informed tire choices.
Types of Bike Tyres
There are mainly three types of bike tyres: tubeless, tube-type, and tubular. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages.
– Tubeless tyres: These tyres do not have an inner tube, but instead have a sealant that prevents air leakage. They are more resistant to punctures, offer better grip and handling, and are easier to repair. However, they are also more expensive, heavier, and require special rims and valves.
– Tube-type tyres: These tyres have an inner tube that holds the air pressure. They are cheaper, lighter, and more widely available. However, they are more prone to punctures, offer less grip and handling, and are harder to repair.
– Tubular tyres: These tyres are a combination of tubeless and tube-type tyres. They have an inner tube that is sewn inside the tyre casing. They are mostly used by professional racers, as they offer the best performance, grip, and comfort. However, they are also the most expensive, difficult to install and repair, and require special rims.
Best Bike Tyres In India
MRF Tyre
MRF is renowned for its high-quality tyres that offer exceptional durability, stability, and mileage. The MRF Zapper series, including models like the 275-18 TT Zapper and 300-18 TT Zapper, is considered among the best tyres for bikes in India.
These tyres boast impressive ratings for tyre life, braking, comfort, and value for money. They offer excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces, ensuring safety in various riding conditions. However, MRF tyres may be slightly costlier than some competitors.
Pros:
- Long tyre life
- Excellent grip and braking
- High-speed stability
- Good mileage
Cons:
- Slightly costlier than competitors
Verdict: MRF tyres are a solid choice for Indian bike riders, offering longevity, grip, and stability. While they may be priced a bit higher, their performance justifies the investment.
Michelin Tyre – Best Performance & Best Comfort
Michelin is synonymous with high-performance tyres. The 80/100-18 TL Sirac and 80/100-18 TL Pilot Street 2 are known for their exceptional ride comfort, braking, and dry grip. Michelin tyres excel on well-maintained city roads and highways, offering superior comfort and performance. However, they may have relatively lower durability on Indian roads with potholes and uneven surfaces.
Pros:
- Best ride comfort
- Excellent high-speed stability
- Best braking performance
- Excellent dry grip
Cons:
- Poor tyre life
- High cost
- Low durability
- Vulnerable to punctures on uneven roads
Verdict: Michelin tyres are ideal for high-speed and performance-oriented riding on smooth roads. However, their lower durability makes them less suitable for rough Indian road conditions.
JK Tyre – Best Under Budget
JK Tyre offers budget-friendly options without compromising quality. Models like the 140/70-17 TL and 80/100-18 TL BF 34 provide good dry and wet grip, excellent mileage, and value for money. They are especially well-suited for city commuting and moderate usage. JK Tyres provide an impressive warranty and perform well in various road conditions, making them a solid choice.
Pros:
- Excellent dry and wet grip
- Good mileage
- Best-in-segment warranty
- Affordable
Cons:
- Softer tyre material affects durability
Verdict: JK Tyres are an excellent choice for riders seeking affordability without sacrificing grip and performance. Their warranty service adds to their appeal.
Apollo Tyre
Apollo Tyres offer a range of options for bike riders. Tyres like the 80/100-18 TL and 140/70-17 TL Alpha provide good grip and braking performance. They excel in dry and wet conditions, offering durability and stability. However, they may have slightly lower tyre life compared to some competitors.
Pros:
- Good grip and braking
- Good tyre life
- Maintains mileage
Cons:
- Price may be higher compared to value
Verdict: Apollo tyres strike a balance between grip, durability, and performance. They are suitable for various riding conditions, making them a reliable option.
Ceat Tyre
Ceat Tyres are known for their grip and braking performance in city conditions. Tyres like the 80/100-18 TL Milaze and 80/100-18 TL Grip X3 offer excellent dry grip and braking. They are recommended for city riding with potholes and patches. However, Ceat tyres may have slightly lower tyre life and mileage.
Pros:
- Excellent braking and dry grip
- Good wet grip
Cons:
- Reduced tyre life
- Reduced mileage
Verdict: Ceat tyres are suitable for city riders looking for good grip and braking. However, their reduced tyre life should be considered.
TVS Tyre
TVS Tyres are budget-friendly options that offer decent grip and braking performance. Tyres like the 80/100-18 TL R perform well on city roads and provide satisfactory performance for their price. However, TVS tyres may have lower durability and stability at high speeds.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good grip and braking
Cons:
- Low durability
- Reduced high-speed stability
Verdict: TVS tyres are suitable for budget-conscious riders in city conditions, but their limitations should be considered for highway and high-speed use.
Maxxis Tyre
Maxxis Tyres provide good grip and braking performance. Models like the 80/100-18 TL and 90/100-10 TL M600 offer effective braking and wet grip. However, Maxxis tyres may have lower tyre life and reduced durability.
Pros:
- Good grip and braking
- Effective wet grip
Cons:
- Very low tyre life
- Low durability
Verdict: Maxxis tyres offer decent grip and braking, but their low durability and tyre life may be a concern for many riders.
Different Types of Bike Tyre Grips
Different grip patterns cater to various riding conditions. Here’s a quick overview of the types:
Rib Pattern Grip
Pros:
- Longest tyre life
- Good dry grip
- High-speed stability
- Best mileage
Cons:
- Poor wet grip
- Poor cornering stability
- Unsuitable for off-road
Verdict: Rib pattern tyres are ideal for calm riders seeking longevity and high fuel efficiency.
V Pattern Grip
Pros:
- Excellent tyre life
- Best on-road grip
- Best high-speed stability
- Good mileage
Cons:
- Reduced off-road capabilities
Verdict: V pattern tyres offer the best all-around performance for most users.
Block Pattern Grip
Pros:
- Good tyre life
- Good grip on-road and off-road
Cons:
- Low mileage
- Low high-speed stability
Verdict: Block pattern tyres are suited for users who need grip and durability on uneven roads.
Button Pattern Grip
Pros:
- Best durability
- Best off-road grip
Cons:
- Low tyre life
- Low mileage
- Low high-speed stability
- Noise and vibration at high speed
Verdict: Button pattern tyres are best for off-road conditions but lack longevity and high-speed stability.
Recommended Bike Tyre Pressure –
For Good Road conditions –
1 Passenger – Front (26 Psi) Rear (32 Psi)
2 Passenger – Front (28 Psi) Rear (36 Psi)
For Bad Road conditions –
1 Passenger – Front (28 Psi) Rear (36 Psi)
2 Passenger – Front (30 Psi) Rear (38 Psi)
References
Top 10 Tyre Brands For Two-Wheelers In India (Best Tyre for Bike )https://tyres.cardekho.com/best-bike-tyres
Top 10 Tyre Brands For Two-Wheelers In India (Best Tyre for Bike )