Cycling in Europe: Bike Tyres, Cycle Tours, and a Puncture-free Trip
Nobody likes getting punctures. They always seem to happen when it’s cold, wet, and you’re at least 10 miles from the nearest café. That’s why tyre choice is a big deal for cyclists – especially for those of us who want to spend more time riding and less time wrestling with tyre levers in the rain.
Despite the dream of solid, puncture-proof tyres, there’s still no substitute in my opinion for the time-tested combination of a good rubber tyre and inner tube.
What Kind of Cycling are You Doing?
Your tyre choice should suit your style of riding. Speed demons might lean toward slick, narrow tyres. Gravel grinders and mountain bikers need something chunkier with grip. And if, like me, you’re into relaxed leisure cycling for fun – think scenic cycle paths and quiet European roads – you’re probably looking for a balance between comfort, safety, and reliability.
Tyre Talk: Tips for a Smoother Bike Ride
Inner Tubes
Forget about the fancy rubber – it’s the valve that matters. If something sharp gets through your tyre, the tube’s rubber doesn’t stand a chance. You can pick up an inner tube for less than £2, but I prefer spending a little more for peace of mind and a brand I trust.
Tyre Size
Once upon a time, narrow tyres were thought to be the holy grail for speed. These days, the science doesn’t really back that up. I personally go for 28mm tyres, but even 32s would be a good choice for most leisure rides.
Tyre Cost
Here’s one place not to skimp. Cheap tyres can lead to frequent punctures, and trust me, the frustration isn’t worth the savings. Expect to pay over £30 per tyre if you want quality and less faff. The investment is worth it.
Cheap tyres can easily ruin a cycling holiday by increasing the risk of punctures.
What Tires do I Recommend?
For a balance of speed and resilience, the Continental GatorSkin is the classic choice. They’re tough, but once they wear down, the rubber can go a bit soft, making them more prone to punctures.
My personal favourite? The Schwalbe Marathon Plus. With just enough tread to keep you confident in wet conditions and a smooth ride on tarmac, these tyres have taken me thousands of kilometres with no punctures. After one particularly gritty 5-day ride, I found three tiny shards of glass embedded in my tyres. For most brands, that would’ve meant three flats. I pulled them out and kept on riding.
Cycling Holidays & Tours: the Joy of Exploring Europe on Two Wheels
Europe is a cyclist’s dream. From the Loire Valley in France to the Dolomites in Italy, there’s no shortage of scenic routes, good food, and (mostly) courteous drivers.
Planning a self-guided cycling holiday or bike tour is a fantastic way to see the continent. You don’t need to be an elite athlete either. There are e-bike options and routes which favour beautiful landscapes over brutal gradients.
One country that I particularly enjoyed was Croatia. I think as cyclists we always worry about drivers hating us wherever we are, but my experience was overwhelmingly positive.
I spent a week cycling along the Dalmatian coast – a mix of islands, ferries, coastal roads, and quaint towns. Not once did I feel unsafe on the bike. In fact, the drivers were some of the most considerate I’ve encountered in Europe. They gave space, waited patiently, and often gave a friendly wave as they passed.
The views were unreal, and the quiet roads and good weather meant this trip turned out to be one of the most enjoyable and relaxing cycling holidays I’ve ever had – and yes, once again, no punctures.
Cycling in Europe offers so much more than just a workout. It’s a way to travel, to experience culture, and to slow down in a fast-paced world. And now you’ve read this blog, a flat tyre won’t stop you! So when you’re planning your next trip, spend a little time (and money) on your tyres. Your future self – soaked to the skin in the middle of nowhere – will thank you.
Have a cycling story or tyre recommendation of your own? Leave a comment below – and happy riding!