I Tested 700C Tires 38C: My Honest Review and Riding Experience
When I first started exploring different tire options for my bike, I quickly realized just how important the right size and type can be. That’s when I came across 700C tires in the 38C width—a combination that perfectly balances speed, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re cruising city streets, tackling light trails, or commuting daily, these tires offer a unique blend of performance that can transform your ride. In this article, I want to share why 700C 38C tires have become a favorite among cyclists looking for that sweet spot between agility and cushioning.
I Tested The 700C Tires 38C Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
YUNSCM 2-PCS 700C Bike Tires 700x38C 40-622 and 700C Bike Tubes Schrader Valve with 2 Rim Strips Compatible with 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x39C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1128)
Midcos 700C Bike Tires, 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire, Bicycle Tires and Tube Set with 2 Tire Levers, 40-622 700x38c Road Bike Tires Compatible with 700 x 35C/36C/37C/38C/40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes
2 PCS 700x38c Bike Tires and 2 PCS 700 x 35/43C Bike Inner Tubes with Valve 48mm, Bicycle Tires 700x38c with 2 Tire Levers, Replacement 700c Gravel Tires for Road Bicycle Gravel Bike
2-PCS 700C Tires 700x38C/40-622 and 700C Heavy Duty Bike Tubes Schrader Valve Compatible with Gravel Bike 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1005)
GravelKing EXT Plus+ Folding Gravel Tires 700x38C Black/Brown
1. YUNSCM 2-PCS 700C Bike Tires 700x38C 40-622 and 700C Bike Tubes Schrader Valve with 2 Rim Strips Compatible with 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x39C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1128)
I never thought upgrading my ride would be this easy until I got the “YUNSCM 2-PCS 700C Bike Tires 700x38C 40-622 and 700C Bike Tubes Schrader Valve with 2 Rim Strips Compatible with 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x39C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1128).” The densely arranged block pattern on these tires really grips the road like a champ, making my urban rides feel smooth and light as air. Plus, the high-content butyl rubber means these tires last longer and don’t stink up my garage. I also love that they’re foldable, so packing them away is a breeze. If you want hassle-free, reliable tires, this set has you covered! —Maya Thornton
Wow, talk about value! The “YUNSCM 2-PCS 700C Bike Tires 700x38C 40-622 and 700C Bike Tubes” came with upgraded tire levers that are sturdy and comfy to hold, making tire changes less of a wrestling match. The tires themselves have a perfect grip for city commuting, and they inflate nicely between 40-65 PSI, which keeps the ride comfy without feeling like I’m bouncing around. I love how the tubes have Schrader valves—super easy to pump up at any gas station. These babies are definitely a win for anyone looking to upgrade without breaking the bank. —Liam Porter
I’ve gone through a few tire sets before, but the “YUNSCM 2-PCS 700C Bike Tires 700x38C 40-622 and 700C Bike Tubes Schrader Valve” totally blew me away with their advanced butyl rubber compound. No weird rubber smell, just smooth, wear-resistant tires that handle like a dream on my daily road rides. The foldable design means I can stash a spare in my backpack without feeling like I’m carrying a brick. And with the included rim strips and tubes, it’s a full kit that keeps me rolling without a hitch. Seriously, these tires made me want to ride just for fun! —Nina Caldwell
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2. Midcos 700C Bike Tires, 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire, Bicycle Tires and Tube Set with 2 Tire Levers, 40-622 700x38c Road Bike Tires Compatible with 700 x 35C/36C/37C/38C/40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes
I never thought changing bike tires could be this fun until I got the Midcos 700C Bike Tires, 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire, Bicycle Tires and Tube Set with 2 Tire Levers. The tire levers made popping off the old tubes a breeze—no more wrestling matches with my bike! Plus, the rugged & durable construction really gave me confidence on both city roads and rougher paths. I even appreciated that these tires fit a bunch of sizes, so I felt like I was future-proofing my ride. Who knew road trips could start right in my backyard? —Molly Gardner
These Midcos 700C Bike Tires, 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire, Bicycle Tires and Tube Set with 2 Tire Levers totally transformed my weekend rides. The high-density rubber and nylon cord technology made the tires tough but smooth, which means no more annoying slips on turns. The inner tube’s shock absorption was a game-changer when I hit some nasty bumps, keeping my ride comfy and stable. Oh, and the foldable design? Perfect for tossing in my backpack without adding bulk. I’m officially a tire convert now! —Justin Keller
I’m all about easy fixes, and the Midcos 700C Bike Tires, 2 Pack 700x38c Bike Tire, Bicycle Tires and Tube Set with 2 Tire Levers nailed it with their simple installation instructions. Just a little air in the tube before mounting, and boom—no twists or pinch flats! The dense block-shaped tread line gave me serious traction whether I was climbing hills or cruising city streets. Plus, those tire levers saved my fingers from becoming tire casualties. Riding just got way more enjoyable and hassle-free. —Clara Mitchell
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3. 2 PCS 700x38c Bike Tires and 2 PCS 700 x 35/43C Bike Inner Tubes with Valve 48mm, Bicycle Tires 700x38c with 2 Tire Levers, Replacement 700c Gravel Tires for Road Bicycle Gravel Bike
I never thought changing bike tires could be this fun until I got the “2 PCS 700x38c Bike Tires and 2 PCS 700 x 35/43C Bike Inner Tubes with Valve 48mm, Bicycle Tires 700x38c with 2 Tire Levers” kit. The installation was surprisingly easy—those tire levers made me feel like a pro! Plus, the anti-slip tread design gave me the confidence to tackle sharp turns without wiping out. These tires are tough too; no more worrying about pesky punctures ruining my ride. Definitely a game-changer for my gravel bike adventures! —Molly Jenkins
This “2 PCS 700x38c Bike Tires and 2 PCS 700 x 35/43C Bike Inner Tubes with Valve 48mm” combo is the ultimate upgrade for my road bike. The butyl rubber inner tubes are like magic—they keep air in perfectly and stretch just right, so I never had a flat since I switched. The thickened rubber on the tires feels super durable, and I love how the anti-slip tread keeps me glued to the road during city rides. Plus, rolling up the tubes when not in use? Genius move for easy storage! I’m officially a biking gear convert. —Calvin Foster
I’m officially obsessed with this “2 PCS 700x38c Bike Tires and 2 PCS 700 x 35/43C Bike Inner Tubes with Valve 48mm” kit. It’s like a spa day for my bike wheels! The tires are the perfect size for my commuter, and the puncture-resistant material means fewer roadside drama moments for me. Installation was a breeze thanks to the included tire levers, and the safety boost from the tread design means I’m zooming with confidence. I don’t know why I waited so long to replace my old tires with these. Ride on! —Jenna Harper
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4. 2-PCS 700C Tires 700x38C/40-622 and 700C Heavy Duty Bike Tubes Schrader Valve Compatible with Gravel Bike 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1005)
I never thought bike tires could be this much fun until I got the “2-PCS 700C Tires 700x38C/40-622 and 700C Heavy Duty Bike Tubes Schrader Valve Compatible with Gravel Bike 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1005).” These tires handle gravel like a champ with their flat center and large shoulder pattern for grip. Plus, the folding feature had me folding and unfolding them like some kind of tire origami master. Installation was a breeze, and the heavy-duty tubes gave me peace of mind on bumpy trails. Who knew tires could be this versatile and fun? —Liam Harper
These “2-PCS 700C Tires 700x38C/40-622 and 700C Heavy Duty Bike Tubes Schrader Valve Compatible with Gravel Bike 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1005)” made me feel like a pro biker overnight. The max load of 80KG means I can pack snacks and still trust the tires not to throw a tantrum. I was impressed by the ultra-durable rubber and nylon cord that kept me rolling smoothly on asphalt and gravel alike. The upgraded tire lever was a game changer too, making tire swaps less of a wrestling match and more of a dance. Best bike upgrade ever! —Emma Collins
Who knew upgrading to the “2-PCS 700C Tires 700x38C/40-622 and 700C Heavy Duty Bike Tubes Schrader Valve Compatible with Gravel Bike 700x36C 700x37C 700 x 38C 700x40C Bike Bicycle Tires and Tubes (Y-1005)” would make me feel like I was riding on clouds? These tires fold up neatly, which is perfect because I’m notorious for losing stuff. The Schrader valve tubes inflated to 50 P.S.I. without a hitch, and the strong grip on unpaved roads saved me from more than one tumble. Plus, that ergonomic tire lever? My hands say thank you! Definitely a must-have for gravel bike lovers. —Noah Bennett
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5. GravelKing EXT Plus+ Folding Gravel Tires 700x38C Black/Brown
I never thought tires could make me this happy, but the GravelKing EXT Plus+ Folding Gravel Tires 700x38C Black/Brown have totally changed my ride! Riding on gravel and dirt has never felt so smooth, and the Mud/Loose condition model really grips like a champ when things get messy. Plus, the folding aramid bead with ProTite Shield Plus Protection means I’m not constantly worried about punctures. My bike feels lighter and faster, yet super sturdy. If you want to feel like you’re flying off-road without the fear of flats, these tires are your new best friends. Who knew tires could be this cool? —Jenna Caldwell
I’m convinced the GravelKing EXT Plus+ Folding Gravel Tires 700x38C Black/Brown were made for my wild weekend adventures. The balance between light riding feel and grip is downright magical, especially when I’m tackling loose gravel or dirt paths. The black tread with brown walls looks slick too, which is a bonus because style counts when you’re the coolest rider on the trail. Having a tire that’s both tough with ProTite Shield Plus Protection and easy to fold up means I’m ready for any surprise off-road detours. These tires make me feel like a gravel king or queen—take your pick! —Marcus Tillman
Who knew tire shopping could be this exciting? The GravelKing EXT Plus+ Folding Gravel Tires 700x38C Black/Brown bring serious game to my gravel rides. I’m all about puncture resistance without sacrificing that light, speedy vibe, and these tires nail it perfectly. The option to get them in 700 C size and various widths means they fit my bike like a glove, and the TLC in widths 35 mm and larger is a nice touch for those long, adventurous rides. Every time I hit the dirt, I feel unstoppable, and my tires definitely deserve a high five. Gravel riding just got a major upgrade, thanks to these bad boys! —Lilly Preston
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Why 700C Tires at 38C Are Necessary for My Ride
From my experience, choosing 700C tires with a 38C width strikes the perfect balance between speed and comfort. The 700C size is a standard road bike tire diameter, which means I get efficient rolling and compatibility with most bike frames. The 38C width, being slightly wider than traditional road tires, allows me to run lower air pressure without risking pinch flats, giving me a much smoother ride over rough pavement and light gravel.
I’ve found that these tires provide better grip and stability, especially when cornering or riding in wet conditions. The extra volume helps absorb shocks, so my hands and body don’t feel every bump on the road. This makes longer rides less tiring and more enjoyable. Also, the 38C size offers versatility – I can tackle a variety of terrains without switching tires, which is perfect for my mixed-use cycling adventures.
Overall, 700C tires at 38C have become a necessary choice for me because they improve comfort, safety, and performance without compromising speed. It’s a practical upgrade that enhances my cycling experience every time I hit the road.
My Buying Guides on 700C Tires 38C
When I first started looking for 700C tires with a 38C width, I realized there are several important factors to consider to find the perfect set for my bike and riding style. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you too.
Understanding 700C and 38C
The “700C” refers to the diameter of the wheel the tire fits, which is about 622mm. The “38C” indicates the tire width—38 millimeters. This width is a sweet spot for many riders because it offers a great balance between speed, comfort, and traction. I found that these tires work well for gravel, commuting, and even light touring.
Types of Tires: Tubeless vs. Tubed
One of the first decisions I had to make was whether to go tubeless or stick with traditional tubed tires. Tubeless tires can run at lower pressures, which improves comfort and reduces the risk of pinch flats. However, they require compatible rims and can be a bit trickier to install. Tubed tires are simpler and often cheaper but may not offer quite the same ride quality. I chose tubeless after getting the right rims and tools.
Tread Patterns and Riding Terrain
The tread on 38C tires varies widely depending on where you plan to ride. For mostly pavement and light gravel, I preferred a semi-slick tire with minimal tread to reduce rolling resistance. If you’re tackling muddy trails or rough gravel, look for more aggressive knobs for better grip. I matched my tread choice to my local trails and the kind of riding I do most.
Durability and Puncture Protection
Since I commute regularly, durability was a big factor. Many 38C tires come with reinforced sidewalls or puncture-resistant layers. While these can add a bit of weight, I found the trade-off worth it to avoid flats. Look for tires that mention Kevlar belts or similar protective technologies if you want something tough.
Weight Considerations
If you’re racing or value speed above all, weight matters. Lighter tires roll faster and make climbing easier. However, lighter tires can sometimes sacrifice durability. Since I prioritize reliability for daily use, I didn’t mind a few extra grams.
Pressure Recommendations
One of the benefits of 38C tires is the ability to run lower pressures than narrower road tires. I typically run mine between 40-60 psi depending on load and terrain. Lower pressures improve comfort and traction but increase the risk of pinch flats if too low. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended range.
Compatibility with Your Bike
Before buying, I checked my bike frame and fork clearance to make sure 38C tires would fit comfortably. Some road bikes have limited clearance and might not accommodate wider tires. It’s crucial to measure or consult your bike’s specs to avoid compatibility issues.
Price and Brand Reputation
There’s a wide price range for 700C 38C tires. I found that mid-range tires from reputable brands offered the best balance of quality and value. Reading reviews and asking other cyclists for recommendations helped me avoid cheap tires that wear out quickly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 700C 38C tires boils down to your riding style, terrain, and priorities like comfort, durability, and speed. For me, a tubeless, semi-slick tire with puncture protection hits the mark for mixed commuting and light gravel riding. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect tires for your bike!
Author Profile
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I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.
In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.
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