tyre TPI count
 

just a curiosity thing, what does the TPI rating on a tyre really mean?

i understand that it refers to the number of thread count per square inch of tyre (is this even right?) but in real world riding terms what is the difference?


are some more compliant or faster than others or is it a strength/weight thing?

I don't know, but Sheldon does:

i know that my 290tpi (and now 320tpi) vittorias are absolutely the most supple, comfortable clinchers i have ever ridden (note: i did not say durable). with latex tubes, they are (almost) comparable to the best tubulars. i have ridden a *lot* of different tires.

I rode 320tpi open corsa CXs with latex tubes for about 35 miles. They were the best feeling 35 miles ever. Then the rear got slit open and rendered the tire unusable and that was that

so roughly what i can gather is higher tpi = fragile but suppler?

Just think sheets.

Hotel sheets get a lot of use. But they feel scuzzy.

My fancy high TPI sheets get a lot of use. With the ladies and all.

I spend a lot of time shopping for new sheets.

And a lot of money.

But the ride is nice.

Just buy a set of racing tires and experience it

yeah the reason i ask is i want new tyres for my bike (currently have kenda koncepts in 23c) trying to decide whether to go for 23c race tyres or go to 28c for a bit more comfort... but if higher tpi = better comfort then i might go for some high tpi race tyres in 23 width