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Old 10-08-10 | 04:34 PM
  #11  
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Kojak
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Joined: Feb 2009
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From: PNW - Victoria, BC

Bikes: 2002 Litespeed Vortex - 2007 Trek Madone 5.9 - 2004 Redline Conquest Pro - Specialized S-Works Festina Team Model - 93 Cannondale M 800 Beast of the East

The size of the tire shouldn't be a problem. Most of our 700x35 tires have a load rating of at least 90kg/tire (198lbs.) at max. psi. I could not find the load rating for the Bontrager tire that comes stock on the bike, but one would assume that it's nearly the same.

I would definitely pump up your tire to max psi in the rear, and maybe a bit less in the front. I would respectfully disagree with the concept of going to a narrower tire. A wider tire has a higher load capacity. A larger volume tire will deflect more, but will still roll nicely and will support more weight.

If you intend to retain the fenders, going to a wider tire may not be possible. I'd take a very careful look at your bike where the tire/frame/fender clearance may be an issue and see if there is any wiggle room to get a wider tire on the bike. You may be limited to the width of the tire that you have. That said, you should have no problems with a good 700x35 tire.

As for pump recommendations, get a good floor pump (with or without attached gauge), and get a good hand-held (separate) gauge. Hand-held gauges are much more accurate. Dallas Sox Fan's approach seems like a sound one. A good pump should be available for 20-30 bucks.

Last edited by Kojak; 10-08-10 at 04:39 PM.
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