My office is moving and I am going to have to use a bike/bus commute. I've done this before but have recenlty changed my bike to a 29er Mountain bike. So the other day I tried to put my bike on the bus (DC Metro Bus) and it won't fit. The tires are just too big. The swing arm won't go over the tire. I have used 700c wheels on the bus rack before with no problem so I'm guessing it's partially the width and the actual height of the tire that's the problem. Has anyone had this problem and have switched tires to accomidate the rack? What did you use? Idealy I would like to go as big as possible.

Look at some 35 width road/commuter or cyclocross tires unless you need the knobbies. Ensure your rim width is okay with the tire first. If possible I'd try to borrow some tires from a friend or cooperative LBS and test fit them on your bike and the bus rack before you actually purchase them. .

Thanks

I took your advice and bought some 700x35 tires and they worked just fine. I might even be able to go a little bigger but I’m not going to push it.