Originally Posted by Chris_in_Miami

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: