BMX Race Tires

What is a BMX Race Tire and what makes it special?

BMX Race Tires are designed for one thing: Speed. Unlike Freestyle Tires, they utilize directional tread patterns for low rolling resistance on straights and aggressive side knobs for grip in corners. They operate at high pressures (often 80–100 PSI) to prevent deformation and maximize acceleration.

How is a BMX Race Tire constructed?

Casing (TPI)

The fabric body of the tire. High TPI (e.g., 120 TPI) means finer threads, resulting in a lighter, more supple tire that rolls faster. Low TPI (e.g., 60) is more robust.

Bead

Wire Bead: The standard, heavy but stable.
Folding Bead (Kevlar): Found on high-end tires. Saves significant weight and allows the tire to be folded.

Compound

The rubber mixture. Race tires often use Dual Compounds: Hard center strip for speed, soft sides for cornering grip.

Overview Table: BMX Race Tire Sizes & Compatibility

The most common mistake is buying the wrong "20 Inch" tire. You must match the ETRTO Diameter of your tire to your Rim.

Technical Definitions: ETRTO & Compatibility

ETRTO (European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation)

The only number that really matters. It prevents the "20 Inch" confusion.

• Standard 20" (Pro): ETRTO 406mm.
• Narrow 20" (Junior/Expert): ETRTO 451mm.

Rule: A 406 tire will fall off a 451 rim. A 451 tire will not fit on a 406 rim.

Front vs. Rear

Many racers run a wider tire in the front (e.g., 1.95" or 1.75") for grip and a narrower tire in the rear (e.g., 1.60") to reduce rolling resistance.

Special Focus: OS20 Tires

What is OS20?
OS20 tires use the larger 451mm diameter (like Junior tires) but have the width/volume of Pro tires (1.60" - 1.85").

Can I put OS20 tires on my Expert Rims?
Technically the diameter fits (451mm), but Expert rims are usually too narrow for the wide OS20 tires, leading to instability. You need specific OS20 or wide 451 rims.

Why ride OS20?
Better rollover characteristics on modern, fast tracks. The tire maintains momentum better than a standard 406 tire.

How do I install a BMX Race Tire?

1. Check the Directional Arrow on the sidewall. Race tires have a specific rotation direction!
2. Insert one side of the tire bead into the rim.
3. Slightly inflate the Tube and insert it.
4. Push the second bead into the rim. Use tire levers only if necessary (be careful not to pinch the tube!).
5. Inflate to the recommended pressure (usually printed on the sidewall, e.g., "Max 100 PSI").
6. Check if the tire line sits evenly around the rim before full inflation.

What do the specifications mean?