It sounds like this is a non-starter on this bike because of the fit issue, but I do have firsthand experience with Hookworms. They're certainly tough, and the grip is great, but they're very heavy - nearly 2.5 lbs per tire! Keeping that much weight rolling takes some effort, and they're noticeably slower than the Big Apples that I use now.
If you want to try another balloon tire on the cheap (and have a bike with enough clearance,) the CST Cyclops is a
steal for under $12, and it's very similar to the hookworm. I have a set of these as well, and they feel a bit quicker than the Hookworms, and they're slightly lighter also. With low pressure (around 25 psi,) they're an absolute blast in dirt and gravel, and they corner surprisingly well on loose surfaces. Also, they look great:
Originally Posted by
bud16415
After putting some beach cruiser tires on a mountain bike last year 26 x 2.5 it has given me thoughts of going even wider on the KHS. I have a dedicated tour bike now and the KHS mountain bike is becoming more of my all around bike. Spring means pot holes here and something even bigger and tougher would be nice as long as I could keep the rolling resistance half way close to the 1.5 slicks.
I keep looking at these Maxxis Hookworms in 26 x 2.5 and reading they are a tough tire that rolls nicely.
Couple pictures below. Anyone try them?
http://www.maxxis.com/Bicycle/Urban/Hookworm.aspx
http://www.biketiresdirect.com/product/maxxis-hookworm-26x25-tire