Top 15 Outstanding BMX Tires for Street, Park, and Trails (Evaluated in 2025)
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First published on May 18, 2022, this article has been regularly reviewed and updated for accuracy.
In the realm of BMX riding, the choice of tires can significantly impact performance and enjoyment. This guide offers insights into top BMX tires tailored for street, park, and trail riding.
Street and Park Riding
For those who prefer concrete bowls, ramps, and street spots, the Maxxis Grifter Street Tire (approximately $35.99) is a popular pick. With its fast-rolling, micro-knurled tread, high TPI casing, and dual-compound rubber, the Grifter delivers predictable cornering, a supple ride, and excellent grip on concrete surfaces.
Another highly regarded option is the Animal GLH tire, known for its high quality and longevity. Available in 2.1" and 2.3" widths, it performs well in parks and streets while offering a smooth ride.
For park riding, the Demolition Momentum tire stands out with its lightweight construction and aggressive rectangle tread, providing strong grip and high PSI tolerance.
Trail Riding
When tackling dirt, gravel, and loose surfaces, tires with knobby tread and good traction are essential. The Schwalbe Black Jack tire (approximately $48.00) is an excellent pick for young trail riders, boasting a versatile knobby tread that offers good grip on various terrains while still rolling reasonably well on pavement. It also features K-Guard puncture protection for durability on trails.
The Saltplus Sting tire is another option for all-terrain use, offering good grip and durability with multiple color options. However, it is less recommended solely for trails.
Other Noteworthy BMX Tires
- Demolition Momentum: Lightweight tire available in multiple widths (2.0", 2.2", 2.35") with aggressive rectangle tread for strong grip and high PSI tolerance, suitable for park riding.
- Kenda Kontact: Popular 20x1.95 size BMX tire with directional grooves, versatile for various styles but especially common for street riding.
Choosing the Right Size BMX Tire
Tire size depends on riding style and personal preference. For street and park riding, opt for a slimmer tire like the Maxxis Grifter (2.3" wide) or the Animal GLH (2.1" or 2.3" wide). For trail riding, a thicker tire like the Schwalbe Black Jack (2.25" wide) or the Saltplus Sting (2.3" wide) may be more suitable.
Tips to Make Your BMX Tires Last Longer
- Regularly clean your tires to remove debris.
- Avoid hitting curbs and copings to prevent damage and flats.
- Ride with the right BMX tire pressure for your riding style and terrain.
- Opt for a tire with just the right amount of thread to maintain grip.
Additional Considerations
- Thicker tires provide more stability and cushioning, making them generally better for tricks and rough terrain.
- Folding tires are lighter and easier to carry but tend to cost more.
- If you spend most of your time riding streets, avoid Kevlar bead tires.
- Riding on rough terrain (sharp objects, potholes, or broken glass) will destroy your tires much quicker.
- The lifespan of BMX tires depends on usage, riding style, and tire quality.
Quotes from BMX riders:
- Sebastian E.: "I really like the thread pattern, makes my bike look really good."
- Quote about the Maxxis Grifter: "It's one of the lightest folding BMX tires out there."
- Quote about the Shadow Serpent tire: "Rok then told me to try Shadow's Serpent tire at 2.3′′, and it's of just the right thickness."
In conclusion, the choice of BMX tires is crucial for optimal performance. By considering the riding environment, personal preference, and tire quality, riders can make informed decisions to enhance their BMX experience.
- For street and park BMX riding, the choice of an appropriate tire like the Maxxis Grifter Street Tire or the Animal GLH can significantly enhance performance and enjoyment.
- When facing trail riding challenges, ensuring there's a tire with knobby tread and good traction, such as the Schwalbe Black Jack tire, is essential for a smooth and safe ride.
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