Young shredders, stop searching for the best 16 inch BMX tires!
I have a collection of the ultimate options here for you. And it doesn’t matter what’s your preferred riding style.
These tires work for trails, streets, parks, bowls, flatland – EVERYTHING!
Note: Unfortunately, I couldn’t test these tires (yo, I’m approaching my 40s! 🙂 ), so I asked for some help from all of you guys.
Thus, I hit up a bunch of parents and even talked to many of my little shredders on IG to report back to me, which is their favorite 16″ tire.
This post covers:
- Best 16 inch BMX tires
- How to pick the best 16 inch BMX tire?
- How to make your BMX tires last longer
- FAQ about 16″ BMX tires
Note: I also have a collection of the best 20″ BMX tires and best 18″ BMX tires if you need more options.
Best 16 Inch BMX Tires
1. Cult X Vans 16″ Tire
This is a tire I’ve seen a lot of young dudes shred and I’ve been told about many (including parents) that this is the ultimate tire for a 16″ BMX bike.
The Cult X Vans collaboration tire meets the expectation of everyone, and that’s why it’s so popular.
I know, it’s not a budget tire, but here’s the thing: It’ll last you a long time. And you are welcome to use it on all terrain, yes, including trails and pump tracks.
The tire is available in multiple colors and comes in a 2.3″ width.
It’s everything a young, up-and-coming BMX rider wants, and I highly recommend it.
Max. pressure: 65 PSI
Recommended for: All-terrain (including trail)
Price: $27.99 (may vary)
2. Fiction Troop 16 Tire
Fiction Troop 16 inch BMX tire is another example of an excellent and long-lasting tire.
However, this one is more street and park-oriented. Still, you can actually do a tiny bit of trail riding, but I’d recommend no more than a dirt pump track.
Which is great for a beginner.
Also, it comes at 16 x 2.3″, nice thickness to still ensure it rolls fast and absorb the landings – aaand LOOK good!
Max. pressure: 65 PSI
Recommended for: Street & park
Price: $15.99 (may vary)
3. Specialized Rhythm Lite Tire
The Rhythm Lite 16″ tire is a versatile and budget-friendly choice for young riders who love exploring the outdoors.
Whether it’s gravel trails, dirt paths, or mixed terrain, this tire is built to handle it all.
The fast-rolling center tread ensures smooth rides on various surfaces, while the larger, deeper side knobs provide excellent grip and stability for off-road adventures.
With solid puncture protection and a durable design, it’s a reliable option for any terrain, but I find it ideal for dirt.
Max. pressure: 35 – 65 PSI
Recommended for: Dirt
Price: $24.99 (may vary)
4. Fit Bike Co OEM Tire
The Fit OEM 16″ BMX tire is a great all-around choice for younger shredders.
With the same reliable design found on Fit’s complete bikes, this tire features an all-terrain micro-knurled tread pattern that performs well on streets, parks, and trails.
The unbroken centerline reduces rolling resistance, making for smoother rides.
At 16 x 2.25″, it’s lightweight at just 18.1 oz and can handle up to 60 psi.
If you want a dependable, versatile tire for your little shredder, this one’s a winner.
Max. pressure: 60 PSI
Recommended for: All-terrain
Price: $24.95 (may vary)
5. Kenda K50 BMX Tire
The Kenda K50 16″ tire is a solid option for young BMXers.
The 30 TPI casing and wire bead ensure durability, while the 65 PSI inflation keeps it ready for action.
If you’re looking for a solid dirst tire for your kid’s BMX adventures, the K50 is a highly dependable choice.
Max. pressure: 65 PSI
Recommended for: Dirt
Price: $19.95 (may vary)
How To Pick The Best 16 Inch BMX Tire?
The best way to pick a 16″ tire is to first think about what riding you’ll mostly do.
Hey, not everyone has access to trails and a skatepark in their hometown.
That’s why I added the “Recommended for” section to every tire so that you can make the final decision more easily.
But generally speaking, all these five tires can work for all-terrain.
Why?
Because the speed on a 16″ won’t be the fastest, and the ultimate grip isn’t so essential.
But if you want one tire and never bother about the terrain, then I highly recommend the Cult X Vans 16″ tire.
It has great thickness, epic waffle pattern and multiple color choices!
How To Make Your BMX Tires Last Longer
- Proper inflation: Always maintain the recommended tire pressure. Under-inflated tires can cause pinch flats and wear out the sidewalls, while over-inflated tires can make them prone to punctures. (Check out what’s the best BMX tire pressure.)
- Regular inspection: Frequently check your tires for cuts, punctures, and embedded debris. Remove any sharp objects that have become lodged in the tire.
- Rotate tires: Swap the front and back tires occasionally. This will ensure even wear, as rear tires tend to wear out faster.
- Ride on suitable surfaces: BMX tires are durable, but continuously riding on rough or abrasive surfaces can wear them out prematurely. Whenever possible, ride on surfaces suited for your tire type.
- Avoid skidding: While it might be tempting to skid for fun or to show off, it causes rapid wear to the tire’s tread.
- Quality matters: Invest in high-quality tires. They may be more expensive upfront but will last longer and perform better.
- Use tire liners: These are thin, protective layers placed between the tire and the inner tube. They can help prevent punctures and flats.
- Proper storage: If storing your BMX for extended periods, keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can degrade the rubber over time. Avoid leaving your BMX in very high/low temperatures for extended periods if possible.
- Regular maintenance: Clean the tires occasionally to remove dirt and debris. This not only extends tire life but can also improve grip. (You may also like to check my complete BMX bike maintenance guide.)
- Check wheel alignment: Ensure your wheels are properly aligned. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven wear on the tires.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your BMX tires remain in good condition and last as long as possible.
Remember, however, that all tires have a finite lifespan, so regularly inspect them for signs of excessive wear or damage and replace them when necessary.
FAQ About 16″ BMX Tires
What size tires does a BMX bike have?
You can only fit a 16″ tire on a 16″ BMX bike. Unfortunately, this size of tire won’t fit on any other size bike.
Why do BMX bikes have fat tires?
The reasons for a fatter tire are three: greater impact absorption, more contact surface and a better look.
What 16″ BMX tires should I get?
I suggest you pick the Cult X Vans 16″ tire because I’m sure you’ll want to touch all terrains (streets, parks, trails). This tire not only looks good, but its waffle design is grippy and versatile enough to fit all riding styles.
::
Note: This article was originally published on October 1, 2022. But I regularly review it and update it with necessary improvements for accuracy.
