Clincher：

Clincher tires are the most widely used bicycle tires in the world and use a separate inner tube to inflate them. The tire "clamps" to the rim via a hooked bead, which locks it into place when inflated.

Features：

Easy to install, remove, and repair—even on the roadside

Compatible with most carbon fiber and aluminum alloy rims

Affordable, with a wide selection of sizes and brands

More prone to flats, especially at low pressure

Slightly heavier than tubular or tubeless tires due to the inner tube

Tubular tires are the original high-performance tire of choice, long favored by professional racers for their ultra-lightweight and smooth ride.

Unlike clincher or tubeless tires, the inner tube of a tubular tire is sewn directly into the carcass. The entire setup is then glued or taped to a dedicated tubular rim—no beads or hooks required.

Features:

Ultra-lightweight, ideal for climbing and time trials

Can be ridden at very low tire pressures without risk of flats

Provides a "flexible" ride that absorbs road vibrations

Installation is time-consuming and requires experience

Gluing the tire to the rim can be a hassle and takes hours to dry

Roadside repairs are nearly impossible—most riders carry a spare tire, not a tube

How to Choose the Right Tire Type for Your Needs

In modern high-performance cycling, especially in competitive or long-distance events, the choice of tire type is crucial. Nowadays, if you're using tires 28mm or wider and prefer the comfort and increased grip of lower tire pressure, then opting for a tubeless tire system is undoubtedly the current mainstream trend. Tubeless systems not only reduce the risk of flats but also provide a smoother ride—especially crucial for long rides or difficult terrain.

If, on the other hand, you prioritize tire installation convenience and are accustomed to riding at higher tire pressures, the traditional clincher and tube system remains highly attractive. Its ease of maintenance and easy spare tire replacement make it very practical for daily commuting or training.

Furthermore, for professional and advanced riders striving for extreme performance, tubular tires remain the professional choice in competition, especially in TT and road races. Because the inner tube is sewn directly into the tire casing and glued to the rim, tubular tires offer lower rolling resistance and lower overall weight. They also provide a level of control after a flat, which can mean the difference between victory and defeat on the track. However, it's important to note that tubular tires are complex to install and replace, making them unsuitable for most everyday cyclists.

Ultimately, having a clear choice is often better than vague compatibility. While some rims with compatible designs do exist on the market, this "compromise" can lead to unexpected problems at crucial moments. Especially at high speeds, the tire is your only contact surface with the road—every choice matters to your safety and efficiency.

Which One Is Easier to Repair?

For most amateur cyclists, the most important factor in choosing a tire isn't "fastest" or "lightest," but rather ease of repair. After all, there's nothing more frustrating than being forced to push your bike while riding in the wild because you can't fix a flat.

Clincher tires are undoubtedly the preferred choice. Their simplicity allows them to be restored to service simply by replacing or repairing the inner tube. This process is quick and easy, requiring universal tools, making it easy for even a novice to complete.

Tubular tires are significantly more difficult to repair. First, their installation is inherently time-consuming and requires specialized skills—the tire is securely glued to the rim with glue or tape, a nearly impossible task for beginners. Even if a tubular tire repair fluid can temporarily fix a puncture, the repaired tire often cannot withstand high tire pressure, making replacing the entire tubular tire the only solution.

Tubeless tires fall somewhere in between. During initial installation, ensure the rim is fully sealed, the valve is securely fastened, and the sealant is properly and adequately applied. Installation may require using an air compressor with a higher instantaneous air supply rather than a regular pump, especially since new tires are difficult to inflate before they're sealed. However, once installed, tubeless tires have the ability to automatically repair small punctures, significantly reducing the need for repairs in the event of a blowout.

From the above discussion, it's clear that each tire system has its pros and cons. Generally speaking, high-end clincher and tubeless tires can now match or even surpass the performance of tubular tires. For those seeking true lightweight performance, tubular tires are the undisputed choice. For most cyclists, the ease of maintenance of clincher tires offers a clear advantage. However, tire selection isn't always entirely arbitrary; it depends on what the existing wheelset can accommodate. After all, the cost of replacing a wheelset far exceeds that of replacing a tire.