Overinflating tires
 

I searched and couldn't find any info on this. I weigh 290 pounds and am riding bike, again, for the first time in 10 years. My tires are rated at a max PSI of 65 (mountain bike tires). Unfortunately, my weight tends to smush them a bit when I ride.

I'm considering new tires for primarily on-road use and want something that allows higher pressure to avoid this problem. I've had several recommendations for the Continental Town and Country, but it's also rated with a max psi of 65. Some have suggested over-inflating the tires, but I'm uncomfortable with exceeding the manufacturer's rating.

Do you think it's safe to over-inflate? Can you recommend another tire for paved roads, gravel roads, and hardpack (I have no intention of trail riding until I'm in much better shape)?

It is possible to exceed the limits by 10pounds or so, but why not get some Slicks that are rated for 90 or 100 pounds? IRC makes some; so does Ritchy; and there are probably others.

Bike Nashbar has the IRC Metro tires on sale for $15 each. I use these with 90psi in the front, and 100 psi in the rear. Great tire for commuting or road use. Very fast! :)

I'm hesitant to go with a completely slick tire. What do you think of the hybrids like the Michelin Wildgripper Jet S?

I wouldn't exceed max recommended pressure by much, but 5 pounds or so shouldn't hurt. Don't think you'll have much luck finding anything other than slicks rated for higher pressures.

I actually have a set of the Continental Town and Country tires, not bad tires but an extremely tight fit to my rim. Changing tubes is not fun.

It's all a matter of what you feel comfortable doing but I'm a big guy who overinflates Mountain Bike tyres by 10 to 15 psi. I've cycled thousands of km that way and never had trouble.

Shows what I know.

Just aired up the Specialized Pro's on my new rockhopper and they are max 80 PSI. The Continental Town and Country's that I have are max 65 PSI. Town and Country tread seems pretty good for street with occasional light trail use, but wouldn't fit your desire for higher pressure.

I guess the best advice it to keep searching untill you find what you want, sorry I can't be of more help.

I've got a set of Continental Town and Country tires on my bike (26x2.1) and they easily carry my 340 lb frame on my daily ride on paved paths. I chose them specifically becuase of their size and tread pattern. No need to over-inflate them.

Well considering a lot of riders ride with the psi 'down' at 25 to 40 for various reasons. Mushing is common and very wanted 60 to 70% of the time. :)