Soma Shikoro Tire

While these are designed as tubeless-ready, you can absolutely run them with inner tubes. The folding bead and casing construction are compatible with standard tube setups if you prefer not to use sealant.

The 48mm width offers significant volume, which excels at smoothing out rough gravel roads and absorbing vibration. On pavement, you will notice a very stable, planted feel, though it will be slightly slower rolling than a narrower, race-oriented tire.

The compound is formulated for durability, so it is firmer than a soft racing tire, but it still provides reliable traction. It is designed to balance longevity with enough grip for daily commuting and mixed-terrain touring, rather than aggressive cornering in wet weather.

At 48mm wide, these are quite large for a traditional road bike. You should check your frame's tire clearance specifications to ensure you have enough room at the chainstays, seatstays, and fork crown before purchasing.

Generally, no. The folding bead is actually more flexible, which often makes mounting the tire onto the rim easier. Just be sure to use proper tire levers if the fit is tight.