Hello Friend and Fans of Light Electric Vehicles! Today, we are talking about Tires. Big ones. Turns out, when it comes to tires- Size matters. 

What's The Deal With Fat Tires, Anyway? 

You may have heard of Fat Tires- they have become very popular for a variety of bike enthusiasts. But they are more than just a stylistic choice. If you want to find out exactly what Fat Tires do, and why they are increasingly popular for certain types of electric vehicles, you’ve come to the right place. 

At first glance, a Fat Tire bike can look like something you might find on a mini Monster-Truck, but think of tires as shoes for your bike.

As anyone who has ever worn a pair of treacherously tall high heels will tell you, they make walking more difficult. If you step on a pebble, or an uneven bit of sidewalk- you’ll feel it.

But now think of wearing a pair of steel-toed boots? Uneven ground or small obstructions don’t seem like such a problem in those, right?

The same principle applies to bike tires. Thinner tires are sleek, elegant and of course, incredibly light. Great for speed biking, or for a person who is looking for a lighter device.

But what about those thicker tires?

Okay, So What ARE Fat Tires, Exactly? 

Unlike thinner tires, Fat Tires have a wider surface area, which changes the way your ride feels when the tires come in contact with the ground. This wider surface area means they require lower inflation pressure- and what that translates to is a “smoother” ride. Just like heavy boots, they can tackle tougher terrain without jeopardizing comfort.

Fat Tires were originally used to transverse inclement weather conditions and terrain types that many traditional bikes would struggle in, like snow, mud, sand, or for use with traditional mountain bikes.

You can tell if a bike frame is built for Fat Tires, by looking at the “forks”- those are the extending parts of the frame that attach to the tires. The forks will be “wider” to accommodate the wider tires. 

Great- So What Are The Advantages To Fat Tires? 

Fat Tires are great for riders looking for smoother rides with a more secure feel to them. They won’t jolt you while riding, if you hit rough terrain, or shifting road conditions.

It’s important to consider the tradeoffs with Fat Tire bikes. Fat tires are heavier, so while you will have a smoother ride, that doesn’t mean it will be effortless- unless of course, you are supplementing your muscle power pedaling with your bike’s battery!

Source: WayAllen (Instagram)

The added weight on your bike will cost you energy-  whether your muscles or your battery power. And remember, if you are relying on your bike's power to propel your bike entirely, that could affect its range.

Fat Tires are also available at a higher price point- which can be a factor, depending on your budget and needs. 

Are Fat Tires Right For Me?

Is a fat tire right for you? Well it depends on what you are looking for.

If you want a bike tire that can comfortably handle multiple types of terrain, or uncertain riding conditions, and aren’t concerned about the overall weight of the bike, then Fat Tires will dramatically improve the comfort of your ride. 

And if you live in a colder climate where road conditions tend to change quickly with the seasons -  like us here in the Great White North -  you might even consider using these tires year-round.

Fat Tires are a wonderful addition to a bike, especially if your riding conditions are versatile or you prefer a smoother ride.

Sounds Awesome- Where Can I Find Out More? 

Looking for more information about your Light Electric Vehicle? We have video playlists as lots more awesome resources, you can access here on our website, or check out our YouTube Channel for tons more awesome content!