Knowing your way around a tire is useful for any cyclist, but it’s especially important for ebike riders.
Not only do people tend to cover more miles on an electric bike, leading to more chances for wear and tear, but the added weight of an ebike makes proper tire pressure and tread choice even more significant.
But don't let that deflate you. A little know-how can go a long way. Here’s what you need to know to choose, maintain, and fix your tires, so you can keep rolling.
Choosing the Right Ebike Tires for Your Ride.
The tires that come with your ebike model were chosen to perform well in a variety of conditions, but some are designed for specific riding styles.
That’s why Rad's off-road ebikes have fat tires for extra stability and traction on rough terrain, while our commuter models use slimmer tires for speed and efficiency on pavement.
Depending on your riding style, you might eventually want to swap them out for a better fit. Here’s what to consider:
Off-Road Riding: If your route includes dirt, gravel, or trails, knobby tires are the way to go. They dig into soft surfaces for better grip, giving you the traction you'll need to tackle the conditions.
City Riding: For pavement, slick tires offer the smoothest ride. Their wider contact patch maximizes grip on dry roads, improving speed and efficiency. Just keep in mind that in wet or cold conditions, they’ll have less traction—so adjust your speed and braking distance accordingly.
Tire Size & Compatibility
Before swapping your tires, make sure they’re compatible with your wheels and your ebike. Check the sidewall of your current tires for the correct diameter and width, and refer to your Owner’s Manual. Using tires that are too large or too small can affect performance and compromise safety (and nobody wants that!)
Finding the Right Tire Pressure for Your Ebike.
Too much air makes for a stiff, bumpy ride. Too little means pinch flats and poor handling. Luckily, it's easy to get it just right.
The simplest way is to check the tire itself. The recommended pressure is always printed on the sidewall, either as a max PSI (e.g., MAX 60 PSI) or a range (e.g., 80-100 PSI).
(Wondering what PSI means? It’s just a fancy way of saying pounds per square inch. More PSI = firmer, less PSI = softer.)
If your tire lists both a range and a maximum, it might seem like there’s a lot of room for guesswork. While you should never go over or under the recommended PSI, you’ll want to experiment within the range to find what feels best for you. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Weight: If you’re a heavier rider, or are someone who carries a lot of kids or cargo on the back of your ebike, you’re going to need more air.
Terrain: If you’re riding off-road, a lower PSI will give you better grip. If you usually ride on pavement, you’ll want a higher PSI for more efficiency.
Weather: If you’re riding on wet or slippery surfaces, you can get better traction when you stick to the lower end of your PSI range.
To find out your current PSI, you’ll need a pressure gauge, and some bike pumps have one built in. To increase PSI, add air with a pump. To lower it, press the valve to release air in small increments until you hit the right level.
Pro tip: Your rear tire usually loses air faster since it since is supports the weight of you and your cargo. Keep an eye on it and adjust as needed.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Ebike's Tire?
Every bike tire wears down over time, and it's up to you to make sure you're regularly inspecting yours.
Check regularly for excessive wear. If you notice bald spots or cracks, it’s probably time to swap your tire. If you start seeing colors peeking through the tread, that means the outer layer has worn away.
But the most telltale sign? A worn tire can feel less stable, and more slippery. If your ride suddenly feels off, it might be time for a new set.
How to Fix a Flat Ebike Tire.
Any bike tire, including those with built-in puncture resistance, can go flat under the right (or wrong!) conditions.
If you're caught with a flat, check out our help center guide and follow along here:
How Often Should You Service Your Ebike?
Know Your Ebike Maintenance Schedule.
Even with proper tire care, regular maintenance from a reputable ebike mechanic is a must to keep your electric bike running smoothly.
We recommend a tune-up every six months or every 750–1,250 miles to make sure everything's in good condition.
Not sure where to go for service? Rad Power Bikes has a growing network of 1,400+ service centers to help with tune-ups, repairs, and general maintenance.
