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knob-ee tyerz

Noun, Plural

A type of bicycle tyre with knobs or lugs for extra grip.

Example usage: 'I need some knobby tyres for my mountain bike.'

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

Most used by: Cyclists who ride in rugged terrain.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 2/10

Also see: Knurled Tyres, Knobbly Tyres, Off-Road Tyres, Mountain Bike Tyres,

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What are Knobby Tyres?

Knobby Tyres, also known as mountain bike tyres, are a type of bicycle tyre designed for off-road cycling. Commonly used in mountain biking, these tyres have a wide, grippy tread pattern with raised knobs or lugs which provide increased traction on rocky, muddy, and other off-road surfaces. The lugs also help to clear away mud and dirt from the tyre to keep the rider in control.

Knobby tyres are generally wider than road tyres and have a larger contact patch with the ground, providing more stability and grip when cornering. They also provide more cushioning from bumps and rocks, making them ideal for more technical off-road terrain. Some knobby tyres are designed for specific terrain types, such as hard-packed trails, loose surfaces, and wet conditions.

The global mountain bike tyres market is expected to grow from USD 1.5 billion in 2018 to USD 2.1 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 4.5%. This growth is mainly due to the increasing popularity of cycling as an outdoor recreational activity, along with the rising demand for lightweight, durable, and high-performance tyres.

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The History of Knobby Tyres in Cycling

Knobby tyres, also known as mountain bike tyres, are a type of tyre designed for off-road cycling. They have a tread pattern with large lugs, or ‘knobs’, that provide extra grip on soft and uneven surfaces. The term ‘knobby tyres’ first appeared in the early 1970s in Northern California, USA, as the popularity of off-road cycling increased.

The first mountain bike tyres were created by the tyre manufacturer Specialized in 1976. These tyres had a tread pattern of small knobs and were designed to provide better grip on dirt and gravel surfaces. The first mountain bikes were primarily used as an alternative to road bikes for recreational riding, and the knobby tyres gave riders better control in challenging terrain.

Since then, mountain bike tyres have evolved to suit different riding styles and terrain. Different tread patterns are available for climbing, cornering, and all-round riding. Knobby tyres remain the most popular choice for off-road cycling, and are available for all types of mountain bike, from cross-country to downhill.

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