Indy452

I'm not really riding my older Cannondale criterium series on the road as much any more so I thought I would see about finding some different tires for the bike.

I'm not sure what to get since the clearance isn't the greatest for anything other than road tires but here goes...maybe you guys know of a solution for the bike.

It currently uses 700x23C comfortably but I'd ideally like something with a little tread for riding in town around the streets here to and from work/leisure etc....not so serious road tires any more. Is there something that will fit this rim and bike?

Pic of the bike for reference...as you can see, the clearance between the front fork and tire is slim...same on the rear too. Just thought I'd ask since I don't know much about tires...

ben4345

I am not sure what are asking, do you want something with tread for more trail use or wider tires?
Most people I know with run 23 or 25 prefer little or no tread (slicks) for street use.

LarDasse74

Unless you are riding on loose surfaces like dirt, there is no need for any sort of 'tread.' The only thing it will do is put less rubber against the road. On a higher speed vehicle, 'sipes' in the tread can prevent hydroplaning, but bicycles don't travel nearly fast enough to ever hydroplane.

However, a larger tire with higher air volume is useful - it provides better traction, better protection from pinch-flats and dented rims, and a degree of shock-absorption if not overinflated. You are limited to whatever size tires fit under your fork crown and rear brake-bridge. Older racing bikes like that sometimes can fit up to a 28 mm wide tire (700 X 28c), and rarely fit up to 700 X 30c. See if your LBS will let you try on a tire to see if it fits. Most fit a 700 X 25C without a problem. Its not much of a difference, but better than nothing.

Another more complicated option would be to convert the bike to use 650B size rims with a new set of long-reach calipers. 650B has a 584mm rim diameter (compared to 622 rim diameter for 700C). You need to find brakes that have 19 mm more reach than the stock ones and you can build new 650B rims onto your existing hubs.

shelbyfv

Panaracer Paselas have a little tread and come in a variety of sizes. I doubt you could fit over a 25 on that bike. There are some vintage Cannondale experts on C&V.

rccardr 

25 is the largest that will fit, and even that will be close. Michelin makes at least one tire in that size with a little tread on it, look at PBK or Bike Tires Direct.

bradtx

Indy452, I have an older crit bike also and a Conti 25 mm tire barely fit, and I mean just barely. Clearance on these handmade frames can vary a little to where you may only be able to fit a 23 mm tire. Don't worry about the tread, or lack of tread, it's simply not an issue. I do suggest a good performance tire as these bikes can absolutely rail a turn.

Brad