Is it critical to have the tread pattern facing in opposite directions on - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

tricky-tree27 · 01-18-2008, 10:44 AM

bicycle tyres??? IE THE V GRIP IS POINTING IN DIFFERING DIRECTIONS

M R · 01-18-2008, 10:44 AM

If you talking MTB tires, I mount mine as they should be, point forward on the front and the other way around on the back. Is it critical? For 99% of us no. I accidently mounted a rear backwards once and was too lazy to turn it around for a few weeks and I honestly could tell a difference. BUT... it's so simple to mount correctly anyway, why not just do it right? If you're do agressive trail riding it's best to have them on right .

wayneolduk · 01-18-2008, 10:45 AM

Cycle backwards? that way you will solve the problem and arrive before you have set off?

Kimber H · 01-18-2008, 10:45 AM

Hey Tricky,

In my opinion it is critical to have your tires mounted correctly if you ride aggressively and fast either in the dirt or street. You always want to have the V pointing towards the front on your front tire for better stopping and control. On the back having the V pointing to the rear gives you better traction when climbing, because the V's act like little scoops, but give you less traction when braking hard. I feel the V's should face both ways on a road bike for better control and braking.

-I mount my tires with the somewhat V tread block pattern pointing forward on my Downhill bike, because I ran the rear tire backwards one time and rear did not track very well. Anyway, it is really up to you. Not critical for just leisure riding, but crucial for sport or performance riding. Just my 2 Cents. =)

Kimber

Help M · 01-18-2008, 10:45 AM

have them for the way your going! how many times will you cycle backwards!!!

silverbullet · 01-18-2008, 10:45 AM

Most MTB tires have an arrow indicating the correct orientation on the sidewall. Follow it.

I've messed up now and then and didn't really notice, but that wasn't under race conditions or hard riding. I think its safe to assume that manufacturers do at least some testing, so there' s a legitimate reason for it.

brummie emma · 01-18-2008, 10:45 AM

take the tyre off and turn it around i think that should work