Well - I've learned a few things about my 3G...

1. The rear wheel must be TRUE and the tire must be FULLY aligned on the rim. If not, the tire is wide enough to rub against the chain! I don't consider this a good design. I have about 1/16 inch of clearance between the tire and chain even when everything is perfect. I've put some "axle-tuggers" on the thing to assist with alignment, but it has to be EXACT.

2. If the bead isn't set on the rim, you can't use air pressure to seat it. When I got the bike, both tube stems were at less than right angles to the rims. I depressured the rear, broke the bead-to-rim seal, and slightly rotated it, then aired it back up without incident. When I tried the front, the tire blew off the rim and ruined the tube. I got a new tube today & this time inflated in three steps (10, 20, & 40 psig) to ensure that the rim & bead were secure.

3. The rims are cheap, single wall construction. I had expected a better-made, double-wall rim for such wide tires, but nope. With the rear alignment being so critical, the single-wall construction doesn't bode well for longevity.

4. Once pedaling, the bike is reasonably stable. It can be ridden "no hands" with but minor side to side wobble. I rode it up & over some curbs, pine cones, and branches without any problem.

5. I don't like the seat. I'm changing to a Brooks ASAP.

6. The reflectors aren't too good. I'll be switching to lights soon.

So all in all, Numbers one through three are my only real complaints. I may investigate whether I can fit the thing with some narrower tires (3.25" or 3" ?). If not, then I'll just have to live with it as it is. I do like the bike, overall. It is light, sturdy, and pleasant looking. If only they'd given the tires a bit more clearance from the chainline...

FH