Originally Posted by
southpawboston
Since this thread has turned into a tire debate, I'll put in this bit for the Soma B-line. While I own three sets of Hetres for three bikes and like them a lot, I have heard nothing but positive feedback for the Soma B-lines, which are rebranded Panaracers Paselas in 650 x 38B size. In particular, the "skinwall" version (not the hypertex version also offered) has been compared very favorably with the Hetre for its smooth ride and low rolling resistance, yet it
costs only about $45, or about 2/3 that of a Hetre.
I am considering both of these tires. I want to go wider than 38mm if possible, and I wonder if you could tell me what you think of my clearance measurements. I know you have a lot of experience with this... is my bike too tight for a Hertre? This is a late 70s(?) Colner road racing frame, measured at 320mm from axle centers:
Fork: 46mm, Seatstays: ~65mm, Chainstays: 44mm if axle is set back in drop outs.
Maybe 45mm if all the way back.