Manufacturer, Retailer, Survey and Consumer Feedback - Schwalbe Marathon Supremes - First Impressions

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Wanderer
09-29-08, 11:01 AM
I just recently changed to Marathon Supremes in the 700X40 size, in place of the OEM 700X45 Specialized Burrough CX Pro. My main reason for choosing the Schwalbe puncture resistant lines, were that I get a lot of flats.

First impressions are mixed, but largely positive.

I run them at the max recommended 85 PSI.

They are on a 622X18 Alex rim, and measure 2194, in circumference, under load, (for those interested in speedo setting numbers.)They actually measure 40cm wide, mounted on this rim.

They have been run primarily on MUP’s and surface streets.

I mounted them with only my fingers, without incident. I also installed new Schwalbe tubes and rim protectors, the 20cm strip filling the rim bottom well perfectly, wall to wall.

After mounting, they definitely vibrate crossing the garage floor, as they cross the tread pattern; but, this completely disappears once loaded. I never felt it once, while riding.

While they “feel” a little slower, the normal average time to go from point A, to point B, hasn’t changed (a 42 mile loop.)

The rubber compound “feels” hard to the touch, but proves to be very compliant in the corners, and rides very smooth.

They are much more surefooted, especially in the corners. Both wide and short turns are much better.

They are very quiet, and smooth running, and feel very good under me.

Their very round profile, and the fact that the tread design wraps right around the sides of the casing sure helps them make very smooth transitions, along with the excellent cornering. No “slippery” feelings in the corners, at all.

They ride much smoother than the OEM’s inflated to the same pressure. They roll very well.

The tread depth is deeper than it appears in print, or on websites.

The reflex sidewall strip, is very reflective……

I realize that 100 miles isn’t a lot to make a determination, but, the first impressions on this one are very good! Very rider friendly.

I normally average a flat about every 100-125 miles, considering their use, (MUP’s are very flat inducing,) and nothing yet! - Time will tell, if they will really make the “big” difference to me.

So far, I really like them, and would recommend them to others.


1FJEF
06-24-11, 11:19 AM
I realize that this is almost a three year old post, but that is one thurough & concise review.

Doohickie
06-24-11, 11:42 AM
I've been running these tires, in 35 mm width, since last fall on my commuter bike. I like them a lot. I was a little disappointed when I got a flat with them. A very small sliver of glass worked its way through the tire tread and into the tube. I removed the sliver and haven't had any issues since, and portions of my route can be very glassy.


1FJEF
06-28-11, 09:52 PM
What's a MUP? Mostly un-paved, Municipal Under Pass, Malevolent Udder Pounder, what?

Ziemas
07-02-11, 11:31 PM
MUP = Multi Use Path.

FWIW, I recently switched to Marathon Supremes (700x28mm) and love them. They really shine in wet weather due to their amazing grip.

Ridefreemc
09-19-11, 09:57 AM
Me too, but 40c. They ride smooth at 60 psi rear and 55 front (recommended). Absorb many bumps that might have thrown the hands off the bars with my 28 c Serfas tires at 100 psi.

1FJEF
05-26-12, 03:43 AM
I tried a set of Marathon Supremes in 32-630. It's tough to find an above average tire for a "27". They do not roll as easily as the previous 28mm tires I had, but there is more cushion to the ride. I got a flat, right off the bat, right through the center of the "green barrier", but they were fine after that first incident. Unfortunately a catastrophic has sidelined one of the wheels! Having trouble finding another 40hole 630mm rim!

Ziemas
05-27-12, 03:35 AM
I loved mine MS at the beginning, but after a few months began to experience flats, and my rear tire finally died with a 1cm gash in the sidewall. The grip on these are great, but compared with other tires of the same price their flat protection is sub-par. I won't be buying them again unless their is an improvement in flat protection.