Q: How do the Air Free tires wear in comparison with pneumatic ones?
A: The Air Free tires can last twice as long as quality pneumatic tires. Under normal riding conditions, the Air Free tire can be expected to give trouble free cycling for 4-6000 miles or more. Depending on how often the tire is ridden, this could be a really long time. And of course the  tire is guaranteed not to go flat, dry rot or mildew while your lifetime warranty is in effect.

Q: Will the Air Free tires stay on the rim?
A: Yes, when the Air Free  tire is properly matched to the rim it is to fit, the tire is almost impossible to dislodge. Several factors are involved including the use of cords which run inside the tire and by the use of little mechanical locks which grip the hook beads present on rims. To learn more about this please see our section on "Why Tires Fit" section. To make sure that your new tires will properly fit your rims, please see our "sizing" section.

Q: Can Air Free Tires damage my rims or spokes?
A: No. Damaged rims almost always occur when an under inflated rubber tire is present. The Air Free  tire actually rests on the rim shoulders and the airless tire prevents any obstacles from depressing the tire far enough to actually contact your rim. More can be found at our "Why Tires Fit" section.

Q: How do I know if Air Free tires will fit my wheels?
A: Air Free Tires will fit most rims available in North America. There are certain instances where the Air Free tire will not fit a rim due to the rims' width or depth. A more detailed explanation can be found on our tire sizing page. If you know the dimensions of your rims, then click here. Also there is more information on the "Why Tires Fit" page.

Q: What if I have a rim that none of your tires will fit?
A: Just email us the make and model of your rim or the dimensions of the rim and we will scour the planet to find a tire to fit.

Q: What about braking and handling?
A: Air Free tires are as good if not better than quality rubber tires. The micro-cell urethane composition of the tires (similar to your sneakers) has a co-efficient of friction comparable to rubber. So rain or dry you can expect sure footed handling.

Q: How much do Air Free tires weigh?
A: Depending on the tire you purchase, Air Free tires will weigh the same if not less than conventional tires (inner tube, tire, puncture resistant sleeve, compressed air). Because the need for air pumps and patch kits are eliminated, the overall weight of the bicycle can be less. All tire weights are measured in grams and are shown with each tire in the collection.

Q: What are the PSI equivalencies?
A: Each tire has the PSI (pounds per square inch) shown. As you look over the collection you may notice that some tires have different PSI. This is because different tires have differing usages. Depending on your riding habits, you may require a PSI of a tire that is not shown. Click the customize tab shown with each individual tire for options. 

Q: What about rolling resistance?
A: The urethane construction of Air Free tires allow for a rolling resistance equal to or similar to conventional rubber tires. Each tire manufactured has a tread pattern and diameter that minimizes the friction imparted to the terrain surface. Also because the Air Free tires tend to be less squishy than pneumatic ones, the ease of movement is greatly enhanced. 

Q: What is the difference between the High Resilient tires and the standard foam tires?
A: Beginning in December of 2000, we began offering some of our tires with the High Resilient option. This material is a solid elastomer developed by a leading chemical company. More information can be found on our manufacturing process page and also on the High Resilient page. This new material is the best thing to happen to airless tires in the last 25 years and only Air Free has it and a lot of the  tires can be made with the HR material

Q: What about installation of the Air Free Tire?
A: Air Free tires are very easy to install. Also our tool and installation instructions are here on the website and are included with each tire shipped. Installing the Air Free tire without the tool may prove difficult and could cause you to damage the rim. This is why we offer the tool at a nominal price. For the economy minded we can even rent you the tool.

Q: What if I need to return the tires?
A: This is never a problem. Typically, the only reason tires are ever returned, is because the wrong size tires were ordered. To make sure this doesn't happen to you, please be extra careful of the size of the tire you before you order. If you have any questions or are unsure of your tire size, email or call us. We will be happy to assist you.

Q: What other information is available to me to make an informed purchase decision?
A: The Air Free website is loaded with information and we add new information all the time. Some areas of good reading are:
The Air Free Tire and Test Data Center
The Air Free Technical Information Headquarters which contain relevant information and professionally prepared articles
The "Ask Hugh" section which features the President of Air Free and some answers he has to more technical questions
And our Customer Service section will help make you feel good.