The relationship between pressure and rolling resistance is actually more complex than it seems on the surface.

“Low pressure will increase the rolling resistance of a tyre through a larger contact area,” explains Blaurock. “A larger contact area equals more grip but a higher rolling resistance. However, look at the chart below and you can see resistance depending on pressure of one particular tyre. It shows you can ride wider tyres with lower pressure at the same level of rolling resistance.”

“On a completely smooth surface the following applies,” explains Taylor, “the higher the inflation pressure of a tyre, the lower the deformation and therefore the rolling resistance. Off-road, the opposite applies: the lower the inflation pressure, the lower the rolling resistance.”

“Tyres with a smaller diameter have a higher rolling resistance at the same pressure because tyre deformation is proportionally greater. The tyre is flattened out more and ‘less round’. Wider tyres roll better than narrower tyres, because they deform less at the same pressure.”

Blaurock concurs, adding: “A wider tyre creates a lower resistance through a smaller deformation of the tyre. That means less energy for reformation is required hence a lower rolling resistance. Also, because of this, it’s possible to run lower pressure and achieve greater comfort.”

Another factor that affects rolling resistance is tyre material and surface design. “By using less material, less material can be deformed,” says Taylor. “And the more flexible the material is, the less energy is lost through deformation. As well as pressure, tyre diameter, width, construction and tread pattern all have an effect on rolling resistance.”