Rolling resistance is the second-largest energy cost in cycling after aerodynamic drag. At speeds below 25 km/h, it dominates. Key factors: tyre pressure (lower is often faster on real roads — the tyre absorbs bumps instead of bouncing), tyre width (wider can be faster due to shorter contact patch), and casing quality (supple casings deform more efficiently). Tubeless setups reduce rolling resistance by eliminating tube friction.
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