Whether you’re gliding through urban streets, grinding up gravel paths, or bombing down a rocky descent, the tyres beneath your bike can make or break your ride. Choosing the right tyres for your terrain isn't just about performance it’s also about comfort, safety and reliability.
At Tannus, we believe your tyres should adapt to your lifestyle, not the other way around. That’s why we’ve created innovative solutions like Tannus Armour inserts, airless tyres, and puncture protection technology designed for every kind of rider.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best tyre options for different terrains and riding styles, from daily commuters to weekend warriors; and help you find the perfect setup for wherever your wheels take you.
🏙️ 1. City & Urban Cycling: Comfort, Puncture Protection & Low Maintenance
City riding demands durable, reliable tyres that can handle potholes, glass, curbs, and sudden stops. Whether you're commuting to work or cruising bike lanes, you need tyres that roll smoothly and won’t leave you stranded with a flat on the side of the road.
Best Tyre Type:
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Hybrid or commuter tyres with a smooth center tread for speed and slight side grip for cornering
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Puncture-resistant casings or inserts (like Tannus Armour)
Tannus Solution:
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Tannus Armour fits inside standard tyres and provides up to 15mm of puncture protection — ideal for riding over debris.
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For ultimate peace of mind? Go fully airless. Our Tannus Airless Tyres are 100% flat-free and perfect for daily commuters.
🌄 2. Gravel & Mixed Terrain: Versatility is Key
Gravel riders and adventure cyclists need tyres that can roll efficiently on pavement but still grip loose or uneven surfaces. These rides often include changing terrain — so tyre versatility is crucial.
Best Tyre Type:
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Gravel-specific tyres (35–50mm width) with knobbled tread
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Tubeless-ready or insert-compatible for lower pressure riding
Tannus Solution:
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Tannus Armour Inserts offer rim and sidewall protection on bumpy terrain, allowing you to run lower pressures for grip without risking pinch flats.
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Our inserts are also perfect for bikepacking, where self-sufficiency is key and puncture prevention is essential.
⛰️ 3. Mountain Biking: Downhill, XC & Trail Riding
Mountain biking is rough, fast, and unpredictable. Whether you’re tackling a downhill course or climbing a singletrack trail, the right tyres help with control, grip, and critically - surviving hits from rocks and roots.
Best Tyre Type:
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Wide (2.2"–2.6") tyres with aggressive tread
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Tubeless or tyre-insert compatible for impact protection
Tannus Solution:
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Tannus Armour is popular among MTB riders for its rim protection and ability to absorb impacts.
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Even when you ride hard and fast, Armour guards your inner tube from punctures and helps maintain control at lower pressures.
🚴♀️ 4. Road Cycling: Speed, Weight, and Flat Resistance
Road cyclists prioritise speed and efficiency. But flats, especially during long rides or races, are a major pain. The key is finding a balance between lightweight performance and reliable puncture prevention.
Best Tyre Type:
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Slick road tyres (25–28mm)
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Performance tyres with puncture-resistant belts
Tannus Solution:
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While road cyclists are often hesitant to add weight, Tannus Armour LITE offers a great compromise — lightweight inner-tube protection that doesn’t slow you down.
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For training bikes, commuters, or winter rides, airless options can also work well.
🧠 Bonus Tips for Tyre Selection
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Check tyre compatibility: Use Tannus' Tyre Size Guide to ensure a perfect fit.
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Consider tyre pressure: Inserts like Armour let you ride lower PSI safely for better traction and comfort.
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Think long-term: Puncture protection isn’t just about convenience — it saves money, reduces waste, and keeps your ride stress-free.
Final Thoughts
The terrain you ride should inspire confidence — not fear of flats. Whether you're dodging taxis on a busy city street or bombing down a forested trail, Tannus offers puncture protection that fits your lifestyle.
🔗 Ready to upgrade your tyres for any terrain?
👉 Explore the Tannus Range
👉 Find Your Fit with Tannus Armour
