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Old 03-29-14, 12:36 PM
  #7  
BobG
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Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: NH
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I agree with Doug and other posters regarding the 32mm Gatorskins.

I've enjoyed Gatorskins on my around town light bike but always avoided them for loaded touring thinking them to be too narrow and flimsy. That all changed when they started making them in 700x32. I used a set on a 2 week trip from NH to VA and really enjoyed their lively feel. I had just given an early retirement to a heavy new set of Schwalbe tires in the same size and the Gatorskins made me smile again. They measure exactly 32mm at the widest spot, the Schwalbe 32's look a bit wider.

My trip involved several gravel/dirt bike paths and 15 miles of the C&O into DC. I felt confident on the paths but if I were embarking on a 400 mile un-paved trip as you are planning I might choose a wider model as suggested by fietsbob. You may find the 32's a bit bouncy and harsh for 400 miles unless it's really smooth limestone. They're fine for paved roads and short stretches of dirt or construction zones. I weigh 165#. Your 220# may require more width.
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