Bicycle Mechanics - Tires vs. Rims

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PIX57LN
12-07-01, 05:43 PM
I am presently in the process of repainting an old J.C.Higgins cruiser bike from the 50s. The rims are exactly 1.5 inches wide. I would like to put balloon tires (2.125 or 2.25) on it. Would those tires be too wide for rims? What is the ratio for recommended tire width vs. rim width? I appreciate any knowlegeable input...........Pix

John E
12-07-01, 06:57 PM
Sheldon has a pretty good chart on that topic. Note that many mountain bike rims are technically too narrow for the tyres, but they seem to work. (Or do they?? Several times, I have had to scrap a mountain bike tyre because its sidewall was getting weak and tattered, even though its tread was still excellent. In contrast, I usually scrap a road tyre when its tread wears out.)
D*Alex
12-08-01, 07:48 AM
More importantly, what is the fork and chainstay clearance?

ljbike
12-08-01, 02:44 PM
As a general rule , you probably can if there is enough clearence, as Alex suggested. But what is your intended use? If you're keeping it a cruiser, 1.75's with a road tread would be a better choice.
pat5319
12-09-01, 03:26 AM
Use the size YOU want to, no problems as far as the rim is concerned.
Ride Your Way
Pat