Folding Bead vs. Wire Bead MTB Tires
Folding bead vs. wire bead MTB tires. When looking to buy a mountain bike tire there are many options that can make it difficult when trying to choose the right one. With different compounds, tread patterns, casing options, and more, it can be hard to break it all down. We've decided to compare the differences of folding bead and wire bead tires in the following article to make it a little easier.
What is a Tire Bead?
The terms "folding bead" and "wire bead" refer to the construction of the tire bead. The tire bead is the part of the tire that interfaces with the rim of the wheel. The bead's primary function is to maintain the connection between the tire and the rim, preventing the tire from coming off during use. Both folding bead and wire bead are used in mountain bike tires, and each has its own advantages and considerations. You can see where the bead is located on the image below.
What is a Folding Bead Tire?
The folding bead is typically made from materials like Kevlar or other lightweight and flexible materials. The key characteristic of a folding bead is its ability to be folded or rolled up. This makes the tire more portable and convenient for transportation and storage.
Here are some key features and characteristics of MTB tires with folding beads:
Material: Folding beads are commonly constructed from Kevlar, a high-strength synthetic fiber, or other lightweight and flexible materials. These materials offer the necessary strength and flexibility to allow the tire to be folded without compromising its integrity.
Portability: One of the primary advantages of folding bead tires is their portability. The ability to fold the tire makes it more compact, making it easier to carry as a spare or to transport when traveling with your bike.
Weight: Folding bead tires are generally lighter than their wire bead counterparts. This weight savings can be particularly important for riders who prioritize a lighter overall bike setup, such as those involved in cross-country racing or riders looking to reduce rotational weight.
Performance: Folding bead tires often have a more supple feel, providing better traction and a smoother ride compared to some wire bead tires. The flexibility of the bead can contribute to a tire that conforms better to the terrain, enhancing the overall performance.
Mounting and Dismounting: The flexibility of folding bead tires can make them easier to mount and dismount compared to some wire bead tires. This can be an advantage, especially when dealing with trailside repairs or changing tires.
It's important to note that while folding bead tires have these advantages, they may come at a higher cost compared to tires with wire beads. When choosing MTB tires, riders should consider factors such as weight, portability, and performance based on their specific riding preferences and needs.
What is a Wire Bead Tire?
The wire bead is typically made from steel wires, and it provides a rigid and durable structure. Unlike folding beads, wire beads are not designed to be folded or rolled up.
Here are some key characteristics of wire bead tires:
Material: The bead of a wire bead tire is typically made of one or more steel wires. This provides a rigid and durable structure, ensuring that the tire maintains its shape and stays securely attached to the rim.
Construction: The steel wires are typically formed into a ring or a loop at each edge of the tire, creating the bead. Unlike folding bead tires, wire bead tires do not have a flexible or foldable bead. The rigid nature of the wire bead contributes to the stability of the tire.
Durability: Wire bead tires are known for their durability and resistance to deformation. The steel bead adds strength to the tire, making it less susceptible to damage during aggressive riding, impacts, or encounters with rough terrain.
Weight: Wire bead tires are generally heavier than tires with folding beads. The weight of the steel bead can contribute to the overall weight of the tire. This may be a consideration for riders who prioritize a lighter bike setup.
Cost: Wire bead tires are often more budget-friendly compared to tires with folding beads. This makes them a popular choice for riders looking for reliable and durable tires without the additional cost associated with certain premium features.
Riding Style: Wire bead tires are commonly used in disciplines where durability and reliability are paramount, such as downhill mountain biking or enduro riding. The sturdy construction of wire bead tires makes them suitable for handling the challenges and impacts encountered in these more demanding riding conditions.
While wire bead tires may be heavier compared to folding bead tires, they are valued for their robustness and cost-effectiveness. Riders often choose wire bead tires when durability and performance in challenging conditions are more critical than reducing the overall weight of the bike.
Our Take
When choosing between wire bead and folding bead MTB tires, riders should consider factors such as durability, cost, and the specific demands of their riding style. While wire bead tires may be heavier, they offer robustness and reliability. This makes them a suitable choice for riders tackling challenging trails and terrains. On the other hand, folding bead tires will be lighter, more portable, and provide better traction. The better traction will typically lead to a smoother ride.
In recent years it seems more and more brands are producing folding bead tires as opposed to wire bead tires. Folding bead tires are lighter, as well as easier and more cost efficient to transport. They are also considered to be the superior racing option because of their ‘premium’ Kevlar construction. With Kevlar being lightweight it helps in reducing rotational weight, which leads to quicker acceleration.
Looking for a new mountain bike tire? We have a large variety of folding bead tires in stock from Maxxis, Continental, and Schwalbe. Over 70 tire models available from these three brands. Click here to shop our full tire selection. Remember that we offer free shipping on all orders over $149CAD. All orders are processed and shipped within 24 business hours as well.
Spend less and ride the best with TBS Bike Parts.
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