- higher rolling resistance (energy to flex the tyre)
- softer ride (but don't go so low that stones or potholes pinch the rim)
- better grip (surface area in contact with the ground)
So go max pressure on a smooth dry road, but go softer in the wet, or on a rough road/mountain.
Similarly, the tread on the typre will also affect energy absorption. Go for smooth road bike tyres, or slick MTB tyres, on a smooth road, but obviously super gnarly for rough mountain trails.
- higher rolling resistance (energy to flex the tyre)
- softer ride (but don't go so low that stones or potholes pinch the rim)
- better grip (surface area in contact with the ground)
So go max pressure on a smooth dry road, but go softer in the wet, or on a rough road/mountain.
Similarly, the tread on the typre will also affect energy absorption. Go for smooth road bike tyres, or slick MTB tyres, on a smooth road, but obviously super gnarly for rough mountain trails.