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Most mountain bikes use 26 in
(559 mm) bicycle wheels, though some models offer 24 or 29 in (520 or 622
mm) wheels. Bicycle wheel sizes are not precise measurements, a 29 inch
mountain bike wheel actually has a 622 mm (24.48 inch) bead seat diameter
(the term, bead seat diameter (BSD), is used in the ETRTO tire and rim
sizing system). 622 mm wheels are standard on road bikes and are commonly
known as 700c. In some countries, mainly in Continental Europe, 700c (622
mm) wheels are commonly called 28 inch wheels.
24 inch wheels are used for dirt jumping bikes and sometimes on freeride
bikes, rear wheel only, as this makes the bike more maneuverable. 29 inch
wheels were once used for only Cross Country purposes, but are now becoming
more commonplace in other disciplines of mountain biking.
Wheels come in a variety of widths, ranging from standard rims suitable for
use with tires in the 26 in x 1.90 in to 2.10 in (559 x 48 to 53 mm) size,
to 2.35 and 3.00 in (60 and 76 mm) widths popular with freeride and downhill
bicycles.
Manufacturers produce a wide variety of tread patterns to suit different
needs. Among the styles are: slick street tires, street tires with a center
ridge and outer tread, fully knobby, front-specific, rear-specific, and snow
studded. Some tires can be specifically designed for use in certain weather
(wet or dry) and terrain (hard, soft, muddy, etc) conditions. Other tire
designs attempt to be all-around applicable. Within the same intended
application, more expensive tires tend to be lighter and have less rolling
resistance. Sticky Rubber tires are now available for use on freeride and
downhill bikes. While these tires wear down more quickly, they provide
greater traction in all conditions, especially during cornering. Tires and
rims are available in either tubed or tubeless designs, with tubeless tires
recently (2004) gaining favor for their pinch flat resistance. Tubeless
tires can also be run at lower air pressures to improve traction and
increasing rolling resistance. Popular tire manufacturers include Wilderness
Trail Bikes, Schwalbe, Maxxis, Nokian, Michelin, Continental, Tioga, Kenda,
Hutchinson and Panaracer.
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