mountain tires for road bike?
05-29-09, 11:39 AM
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mountain tires for road bike?
my girlfriend and i will soon be moving to a small town in alaska and of course, bringing our bikes with us. from what i understand there aren't many paved roads leading into town which could pose a problem since we both have road bikes. i have been trying to find an alternative to buying a whole new bike, but have not found very much information. does anyone out there know of any 700 x 23 mountain tires? the main things i am worried about is getting good traction on a dirt road, not getting a flat every mile, and also the possibility of damaging our rims. Also, my girlfriends front tire is smaller than 700 x 23 which could be hard to find, i'm not sure what size off the top of my head though. thanks for any help.
05-29-09, 12:03 PM
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You need to be looking for cyclocross tires. Will your frames accept tires larger than 23? Not sure if cross tires are available that skinny.
Is your GF's front wheel a 650 as opposed to 700?
New bikes might be indicated in this situation, if you are unable to find suitable tires. A cross bike or hybrid of some sort would likely work out a lot better on unpaved roads.
Is your GF's front wheel a 650 as opposed to 700?
New bikes might be indicated in this situation, if you are unable to find suitable tires. A cross bike or hybrid of some sort would likely work out a lot better on unpaved roads.
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05-29-09, 01:02 PM
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The problem will mainly lie in the clearance allowed by your fork and/or brakes. Many road bikes can't accommodate a tire larger than 700x27 or 28. This eliminates most CX and all "29'er" type tires.
If you want to continue riding a similar-style bike, a cyclocross or touring frame will allow you to run fatter tires with off-road capable tread designs. Unfortunately road bikes (as great as they are) are basicaly for use on smooth pavement.
Take the GF shopping for new bikes. It'll be an exciting time for both of you.
If you want to continue riding a similar-style bike, a cyclocross or touring frame will allow you to run fatter tires with off-road capable tread designs. Unfortunately road bikes (as great as they are) are basicaly for use on smooth pavement.
Take the GF shopping for new bikes. It'll be an exciting time for both of you.
05-29-09, 01:19 PM
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For trail/unsurfaced road use you need clearance for the tyre, a fender if required and mud. The mud clearance depends on local conditions, whether it is sticky clay or sand.
Some unpaved roads have a washerboard surface which is a valid reason for suspension.
Some unpaved roads have a washerboard surface which is a valid reason for suspension.
05-29-09, 02:38 PM
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Just sold a road bike today to a guy that wants to bomb down the paths. He saw the clearance for bigger tires and has a source for 700c wheels, and off road\cyclocross tires. The bike in question was a mid 80's Bianchi. I sold it to him with big Michelin World Cup tires on it. Still had clearance to boot!
