27" x 1" says the tag on the rim. Checking out Niagra online and I run across 27"x1-1/4" or 1-1/8"...will these fit? Just how big can I go on these rims?

Also, what does anyone know about Cheng Shin tires...they are going for $7- $10 but the average seems to be around the $18 range for others....are these really that inexpensive or are they good for 20 miles only?

Last question....what's "gum" wall?

Thanks in advance.

I very much doubt you would have problems putting 27 x 1-1/4" tires on those rims.

Cheng Shin tires are really not bad unless you're looking for high performance. Months in the sun will cause them to discolor and start to break down, but that's not good for any tire.

Gum wall means the side of the tires is not black, but rather a color that is like gum rubber. It is also a different compound than the tread portion of the tire. Gum walls tend to be a little more supple than all black tires, which many people think provides a nicer ride.

I have bought and used a couple dozen of the Chen Shin tires this year. While I would never confuse them with a $25 tire, they are a good value IMHO. If I want a little better tire, I usually go with the Nashbar Prima 2 tire (also made b Chen Shin by the way). I catch them on a sale for about $10.

I have also used the Pyramid tire, currently on sale for $5.

Here's a black wall Chen Shin on a Fuji:


Here's the gumwall on another Fuji

I bought these for my commuter and have about 1500 miles on them so far. They have some kevlar and they have been pretty flat resistant (except for a bout of bad tubes...). Definitely pleased with these.

However, they are $14.99 at Nashbar right now.