Touring - Max tire width anyone has used on a Trek 520???

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Monoborracho
08-26-10, 07:11 AM
I'm touring the C&O/GAP next month. I'm just wondering what is the largest tire anyone has put on a Trek 520. I'm thinking of trying the tour with a set of these in 37 mm.

http://www.conti-online.com/generato...ontact_en.html

or these in a 40 mm, folding bead.

http://www.schwalbetires.com/marathon_dureme

My 520 is a 1994 model. The inside of the front fork and chain stays both measure about 60mm at the top of the tires. Of course, things move and flex when you hit a bump.

I have a set of Gilles-Berthoud fenders in a 40mm width which I would like to use, but might have to remove.

Comments appreciated.

Bekologist
08-26-10, 07:28 AM
what's on there right now, and how much clearance do you have? add mms to within about 3 mm of the fender, and you have max width. Double check at chainstays, under fork, and at seatstays.

the more recent treks had limitations at the fork clearance, but this clearance appeared to be improved on the last couple of years. in mid 2000s you couldn't usually get more than a 35 under the fork unless you filed down the steerer tube!
John Nelson
08-26-10, 02:47 PM
Of course, things move and flex when you hit a bump.

Really? Measurably?

I run 37-622 (both Schwalbe XR and Schwalbe Supreme) on my 2009 Trek 520 with no problems.

You can often run larger tires if you give up on having fenders.