Gary Fisher Marlin 29er - Tyre Options for speed
 

Hi friends,
I have recently got my GF Marlin 29er. Lemme add a pic for ref :
http://www.malleast.com/images/gary-...ntain-bike.jpg

Have driven it around, am not too happy with the tires that i have on it, they are adding to a lot of surface contact & friction. While the 29er is definitely quick than my other TREK 3700 with 26ers, i am here to have Tyre options, guidance & tips on the following :

1) WHAT KIND OF TREADING IS BEST TO GAIN SPEED ON MORTAR ROADS?
I understand the harder treads & the tyres with treads clustered towards center should work better. Is it so? Pls add on &/or correct me.


2) SIZES & WIDTH
I have seen tyres come with dimensions stated as - 29 x 1.9 , 29 x 2.1 OR 29 x 2.0 etc etc - Here i reckon that the 1.9 or 2.1 is the width?

So, if you recommend or that i consider 29x1.9 or something, would the brakes align well and function flawlessly? Does the Tyre width matter here?

For your handy reference, here are the specs on wheels/brakeset:
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Current Wheels on Marlin:
Formula DC20 front hub, Shimano M475 rear hub; Bontrager Ranger Disc 32-hole rims

Tires :
Bontrager 29-2, 29x2.1"

Brakeset : Tektro Novela mechanical disc brakes,6- bolt; 160mm rotors
---



3) WHAT OPTIONS ON TYRES DO YOU THINK THAT CAN I CONSIDER FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE OR THAT YOU HAVE SEEN AROUND WITH FRIENDS WHO LOVE IT?

If you know of any then Online links to the stores around shall help.
Am in India & would like a store to have Paypal arrangement.


Cheers & Tx in advance.

Safe Ridin' yall!
..

While i could search around, I could land at this one, let me know if you feel this could be it.
Or else suggest at will pls:

Option 1
http://bontrager.com/model/07798

Schwalbe Fat Frank 29 x 2.0
Serfas Drifter 29 x 2.0

Tks Lucius,
Any onliine shop u suggest that ships internationally?

Safe Riding
..

http://www.rei.com/product/793100/se...y-tire-29-x-20
http://www.rei.com/help/intl_order.html

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/M...?ModelID=24558
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/P...formation.aspx

Thanks Lucius,
Appreciate the attention n guidance.

Would 1.9 be a good option
or rather a 1.9 in a 700c than a 29er. I understand 700c range is lighter than 29ers. If less weight is the benefit with 700c, what are the flaws, if any?

bump

Certainly some 700c tires will be lighter and will often have a more appropriate tread pattern for streets and paths. A 47mm tire will be close to 1.9" in width. But not all 700c tires are lighter. A Michelin City Tire in 700c x 47mm weighs 915 grams while the Serfas Drifter in 29 x 2.0 weighs 850 grams. I guess you can try to evaluate 29 inchers and 700c tires based on your intended application and come up with the best for you.

These are what I'm currently using and they feel beautiful. I changed from 23mm and am welcoming the drastic change. I ride almost entirely on road / concrete. 295g

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f2...c/CA331242.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f2...c/CA331241.jpg

Thanks again Lucius and Giant,
Had been reading all thru the net and reviews and placed the order for FAT FRANK 29ers creme.

Some fantastic reviews wrt speed, comfot and reliability for it, despite the weight.

@ Giant
Kendo has got some seriously mixed reviews both fine and bad. I would certainly look to the brand still, I feel they can do much better.