neospazzy

I am ready to purchase a set of these tires from eBay, only to find out that the stock tires are Bontrager 26x2.2". Question: Do I need a new wheelset to fit the Velociraptors or can I reuse the stock rims that came with my bike (Bontrager Select Disc). The fact that there is a 0.1" difference between the stock tires and the Velociraptors is preventing me from ordering something that may not fit my stock wheels. Any help or clarification would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

born2bahick

They will be fine!

neospazzy

Thanks born2bahick!

rankin116

The number after the 26x is a measure of the width of the tire, not the rim it will fit on. Just make sure you aren't buying tubeless if you don't have tubeless rims. Although I think they can work, but I don't know for sure. So the 2.1 is narrower than the 2.2 you have, keep that in mind depending on your terrain.

EJ123

How do you like the bike? Mine is just below yours and same year

rbrsddn

Velociraptors are the only tire I've used for the last 6-7 years. I can't see using anything else, they're that good. I got some Nokians for the ice, so bring on winter!

ed 

I'd probably keep the wheels, but upgrade the frame.
(not a Trek fan here, haha)
So...yeah, raptors are grippy but they roll like a combine tire. I'd go with some Kenda Nevegal's.

ed 

fitment

Main Entry: fit·ment
Pronunciation: \ˈfit-mənt\
Function: noun
Etymology: 4fit
Date: 1851
chiefly British : furnishing 2, fixture, cabinetry —usually used in plural

https://www.discountedwheelwarehouse....ment_Guide.cfm

I didn't even know that word existed...I truly do learn something here.

edit: I can see the future

mcoine

Seems silly to continue using the same tire for 7 years when there are so many great new tires on the market to at least try.

Dannihilator

Yeah, time to try something new like those new fangled Panaracer Smokes and Darts.

Seriously though mcoine has a point, try something new. The velociraptors are a very outdated design.

rbrsddn

Seriously though mcoine has a point, try something new. The velociraptors are a very outdated design.

Ok, what tires would you recommend? Are the Nevegals good? What WTB tire?

Edit: The Motoraptors look good. Anyone using those?

rankin116

That does sound dumb, but what I meant to imply was that the tire would fit the rim, but still need to be run with a tube.

And what is the 2.1 then if not a measure of width?

pinkrobe

I have a Motoraptor on the rear of my Titus, and it hooks up quite well, rolls nicely and doesn't squirm too much at 30 psi. I have a Velociraptor on the back of my SS, and for a design that old, it does an excellent job of gripping the terrain in my neck of the woods. I run it at about 35-40 psi. I was going to spring for some Nevegals, but I cheaped out and got the V instead [$14.99 for Kevlar bead!].

rbrsddn

I've had good luck with the Velociraptors here in CT, but am building a new set of wheels, so am willing to break out of the rut and trying something new. Tossup between Motoraptors and Nevegals. I like the Moto tread design but the Nevegals are 40 grams lighter a pair, according to BTD. I'll flip a coin. Hopefully the OP can use this info to his benefit as well.

neospazzy

Thanks for all your advices. I went ahead and ordered the Velociraptors anyway ($39 shipped on eBay for BOTH front and back tires). I will let you guys know what I think of them when I get them.

EJ123 - I like my EX7 and, in fact, people say that the 06 version is actually BETTER than the 07. It has the lockout feature on the rear shocks so climbing on them is easier. The bike is built like a tank, that is for sure. Hopefully these tires will grip better than the stock Bontys it came with. I am just a casual weekend trail rider who isn't into jumps or high speed. This bike serves me well for what it does.

MulletArgyleman

what's wrong w/ your bontragers?

and yes 2.1" would be fine.

ed 

40g won't help you up a hill w/o traction, haha.

rbrsddn

I'm trying to decipher your hidden message, but am unable to do so. I've had good luck with the WTB's, so am going to try a set of Motoraptors after the Velociraptors wear out.

ed 

I was just saying...depending on your most frequented trail network...a rotational weight savings of 40 grams would not out weigh the benefit of the Nevegal. Most of the climbing around here is short/steep/rocky/loose and rotational weight savings would be more for long fire road and flat ground stuff. The added traction bonus is what makes me faster on my local trails.

Now, I did notice the change from Stick-E's with DH tubes to DTC's with standard tubes. I saved a couple hundred grams per wheel there.

rbrsddn

Cool. I wonder if I can fit 2.35's on my Fat? Or if I'd need them?