I have to agree that picking the correct tire can get tricky for all of us. Even the highly-experienced bicycle riders get it wrong at times. However, having sound knowledge and an eagle-eye vision to spot the right one can make a huge difference in your biking experience. So, 700×25 vs 700×28 tires – which one is the winner? We will dig into it.
In terms of 700×25 & 700×28, there are subtle differences that casual riders might not be able to pick up. The latter (700×28) offers a better comfort experience as it runs on a lower pressure as compared to 700×25 tires. On the other side, the 700×25 tires are much faster, but they won’t be able to cover much ground.
Let’s have a detailed look by comparing them in different aspects –
700×25 vs 700×28: differences (full comparison)
1. What do 700×25 and 700×28 tires mean?
| 700×25 Tires | 700×28 Tires |
|---|---|
| 700×25 are precisely the dimensions of the bicycle tire as per the French system. The total diameter of the bike tire is 700, which is sized in millimeters. The width of the tire is 25, which is basically what you see of the tires when standing in front of the bike or behind. The tires are slightly smaller as compared to their counterpart (700×28), yet faster in a way. | 700×28 is the size of the bicycle tire, with 700 being the total diameter of the tire that is measured in terms of millimeters. The width of the tire is 28mm, which can be viewed when you are either looking at the bike from the front or backside. These tires provide better traction and comfort during bike rides. |
2. Comfort
| 700×25 Tires | 700×28 Tires |
|---|---|
| Less comfort than what a 700×28 tire has on offer. Just a slight difference between the two as it does provide a similar experience. Though 700×28 would be a better alternative. | It offers more comfort due to its ability to run at lower air pressure. However, there is hardly any difference when compared to 700×25. |
3. Rolling resistance
Before I make a comparison between the two, the readers need to know what rolling resistance means. It is the energy that bicycle tires require for moving at a certain pace. Having a low resistance is what you would want as you do not have to utilize more energy by pedaling at a stable speed.
Rolling resistance of 80-120 psi (pounds per square inch) shall be ideal for a road tire.
| 700×25 Tires | 700×28 Tires |
|---|---|
| 10% lighter in weight as compared to 700×28. Also, more energy is lost to casing flex, and that would require more energy to maintain a constant speed. The rolling resistance isn’t noticeable, but it falls behind the 700×28 tires. | It has a better tire performance, since it is almost 10% heavier. Moreover, they can get faster over a certain time (0.02 mph) while pedaling at an average speed. Eventually, there is less rolling resistance due to its wider tires. |
4. Which one runs faster?
| 700×25 Tires | 700×28 Tires |
|---|---|
| These tires are the real deal when it comes to pace. If you are planning to go to a distant place on your bike with less time in hand, this is the tire you should be going with. In terms of lab testing, it has been found that the 700×28 variant is faster. However, when tested on the road, the 700×25 proves to be the winner. There’s no compromise for speed, and it proves to be the faster tire. | They do gain pace for a certain amount of time, thanks to their width, leading to lower rolling resistance. However, it drops pace when tested in real life (roads). Undoubtedly comfortable, yet slower for most of the time in comparison. |
5. Which is better?
| 700×25 Tires | 700×28 Tires |
|---|---|
| Known to be more of a speed demon, they can be your ultimate choice for race competitions like Marathon. On an overall basis, they do come second as the tires do lack the grip, higher degradation, and more energy lost to maintain a constant speed (rolling resistance). Though the differences can’t be felt by casual riders, you can stick to it If speed is your only requirement. | The 700×28 can do most of the things that a rider would want. You do not have to worry about bumpy roads or taking your bike on an off-road challenge. Since they are wider, it offers low rolling resistance and a better grip, transcending into superior performance and comfort. On an overall comparison, 700×28 tires are much better and offer versatility. |
Should you switch from 700×25 to 700×28?
Okay! This is one complex yet an interesting question that I will answer. Both the tires are extremely useful and there is a subtle difference that doesn’t bother you when you bike consistently.
I would suggest that you should upgrade to the 700×28 tires as it is not only about comfort but safety. They tend to be built looking at providing a versatile biking experience, along with cutting-off injuries or accidents with a sturdy grip.
The 700×25 tires might be good in providing speed, but that is it. It might not be an option in the long run as more bike manufacturers plan to make more bikes with 700×28 tires. Looking at the future and the comfort it provides, you should rock the 700×28 tires.
References: ScienceDirect, Bicycling.com
