Caleb MorganBy Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

A continental bike tire size chart helps you match a Continental tire to your wheel without guessing. Continental labels most of its tires with two sizes: an inch or French measurement and an ISO (ETRTO) measurement. Once you know how to read both, you can confirm that a tire fits your rim and frame before you buy.

Step 1: Read the size printed on your current tire

Look on the sidewall of your existing tire. You will usually see a line such as 700x25C or 28-622. The first number is the nominal outer diameter, and the second part is the width or bead seat diameter. Write down both numbers.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Road Bike Shoe Size Charts (2026): Expert Picks.

Continental uses the same logic on its own sidewalls, so the size on your old tire is the fastest starting point.

Step 2: Convert between inch and ISO sizes

Many Continental tires show two systems side by side. ISO sizes are written as bead seat diameter by width in millimeters, such as 622 x 23. Inch sizes are written as outer diameter by width, such as 700 x 23C. The ISO number is the more precise one.

Common inch size ISO size Typical use
700 x 23C 23-622 Road
700 x 28C 28-622 Road, gravel
27 x 1-1/4 32-630 Older road and touring
26 x 2.1 54-559 Mountain, hybrid

If a chart lists only one system, check the ISO number first. ISO sizes avoid the confusion that comes from different naming habits across brands.

Step 3: Check your rim width and frame clearance

A tire size match is not the same as a fit. Your rim’s internal width determines how the tire sits and how wide it should be. Manufacturers generally recommend a tire width range for each rim, so check the rim spec before you order. Then measure clearance: with the wheel in the frame, look for at least a few millimeters of space around the tire at the chainstays, seat stays and fork crown.

For detailed rim matching, see Bike Rim Size Chart: How to Match Rim Diameter, Width and Tires, which explains how rim measurements line up with tire sizes.

Step 4: Confirm the tube matches the tire

Tubes are sized to the same ISO or inch numbers as the tire. A tube marked for 23-622 will fit a 23-622 tire. Check the valve type as well, since Presta and Schrader valves require different rim holes. For a full tube breakdown, read Bike Tire Inner Tube Size Chart: Match Your Tube in 5 Steps.

Quick checklist before you buy

  1. Record the size on your current tire sidewall.
  2. Convert to ISO if the chart uses inches.
  3. Confirm the rim’s recommended width range.
  4. Check frame and fork clearance.
  5. Match the tube size and valve type.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Matching only the outer diameter and ignoring the ISO bead seat number.
  • Assuming a wider tire will always fit a rim with a narrow internal width.
  • Forgetting that gravel and hybrid frames often need more clearance than road frames.
  • Buying a tube by width alone instead of ISO size.

A simple tire pressure gauge helps you set the correct pressure for the width you choose. View on Amazon

A bead-seat measuring tool or sizing caliper makes it easier to check rim width before ordering. View on Amazon

FAQ

Does a Continental tire with the same inch size fit any bike?

Not always. Two tires can share an inch size but differ in ISO size or width, so compare the ISO number and check your frame clearance before buying.

What does the C in 700 x 23C mean?

The C indicates a clincher tire, meaning it uses a tube and hooks onto the rim with its bead. It is the most common type on road and hybrid bikes.

Where can I find my bike’s correct tire size?

Check the sidewall of your current tire or the rim’s label. If you are unsure, consult a local bike shop before ordering, especially for carbon wheels with specific width limits.

Conclusion

A continental bike tire size chart is most useful when you read both inch and ISO sizes and check them against your rim and frame. Confirm the tire width, tube size and clearance, and the fit should be straightforward. Keep your current tire’s sidewall numbers handy as a reference for future purchases.

Ready to choose one?

Caleb Morgan

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our cycling for beginners guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.