What Are Clincher Bicycle Rims?

Clincher bicycle rims are the most common type found on recreational bikes, and offer ease of use and a great ride for most cyclists' purposes. Clincher tires hook onto the rim, securing the inner tube inside.

The Basics

Almost all bicycle tires used by recreational cyclists are "clinchers," meaning that the tire hooks onto the rim of the wheel and a separate inner tube is used to hold air in the tire. Clinchers contrast with "tubulars," another major type of rim and tire. Tubulars are glued onto the rim and do not use an inner tube.

History

The earliest versions of the modern clincher tire were developed in the late 1880s. Some of these early versions used clamps to hold the tire to the rim.

Function

Clincher tires and rims are used by most recreational road and mountain cyclists because they are standard equipment on most recreational-grade bikes and they are easily replaceable.

Features

Clinchers have a "bead" on the edge of the tire, usually made of steel, that hooks under the rim of the wheel. This holds the tire onto the wheel and contains the inner-tube inside, which is then filled with air to inflate the tire.

Benefits

Professional racers often prefer tubular tires to clinchers. They are lighter and less likely to have "pinch flats." However, good clinchers offer less rolling resistance and are much easier to swap out in the event of a flat because tubulars must be glued into place.

Resources

• Understanding the Different Types of Flat Tires