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Naw-bee Tires

Noun

A type of tire with knobby treads for off-road cycling.

Example usage: 'I'm going to buy a pair of knobby tires for my mountain bike.'

Most used in: Mountain biking and off-road cycling.

Most used by: Mountain bikers and off-road cyclists.

Popularity: 8

Comedy Value: 4

Also see: Mountain Bike Tyres, Knobbly Tyres, All-Terrain Tyres, Off-Road Tyres,

What Are Knobby Tires?

Knobby tires are a type of bicycle tire that are designed for off-road cycling. They have a tread pattern of small raised lugs, or knobs, which provide traction and grip on loose surfaces. Knobby tires are most commonly used for mountain biking, cyclocross, and certain types of road riding.

The tread pattern of knobby tires is designed to help the rider maintain control over their bike in off-road conditions. The knobs provide extra grip on dirt, rocks, and other loose surfaces, allowing the rider to turn and corner more easily. In addition, the knobs help to absorb bumps and vibrations from the terrain, improving the comfort of the ride.

Knobby tires are available in a variety of sizes and tread patterns. Generally, wider tires with larger knobs are best for mountain biking, while narrower tires with smaller knobs are better for cyclocross. It is important to select the right size and tread pattern for the type of off-road cycling you intend to do.

According to Bicycle Quarterly, knobby tires are estimated to offer up to 30% more traction than traditional road tires. This makes them ideal for off-road cycling, where traction and control are essential for a safe and enjoyable ride.

The Origin of Knobby Tires

Knobby tires, also known as mountain bike tires, are a type of tire designed for off-road cycling. They are characterized by their tread, which consists of knobs or lugs that provide extra grip on the terrain. The term 'knobby tires' is thought to have originated in the late 1970s and early 1980s in the United States.

At this time, mountain bikes were becoming increasingly popular, and riders needed tires that could handle the tougher terrain they encountered. Tire manufacturers responded by creating tires with knobs or lugs on them to provide extra grip. The term 'knobby tires' was soon adopted to refer to these tires, and it has become a common term in the cycling world.

Today, knobby tires are a staple of mountain biking, and they can be found on most mountain bikes. They are also used on other types of bikes, such as gravel bikes and cyclocross bikes, due to their versatility and grip. Knobby tires remain a popular choice among cyclists looking for an extra bit of grip when tackling tough terrain.

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