I have a BD Fantom Outlaw cyclocross bike that I am planning on using for a long ride (STP) and so looking for quick/cheap ways to upgrade. I have read that upgrading the tires would have the most significant improvement. The bike currently has 700x35 knobby Conti tires and looking to get the 4000s II. The wheels on the bike state the minimum width supported is 28 and the 4000s II do come in that size. Would that be a noticable upgrade or should I be looking at something else?

That would be a noticeable upgrade.

+1

/thread

Thanks! Will keep an eye out for sales on 28 4000s II. BikesTireDirect usually has a pretty good sale on them every now and then but doesn't look like they carry the 28 version. Any other suggestions?

I don't see why 25's won't work.

The WTB i19 wheels have a 19mm inner width, which is fine for running 25mm tires.

Thanks gsa103,
I was thinking the same, especially since I have read the 4000s run wider that other tires. But since I am planning on a long ride, I really don't want to take chances with pinch flats.

Isn't it the outer rim width (25mm for i19) that matters for pinch flats?

Planet cyclery normally has about the best prices I've seen on those tires.

pinch flats shouldn't be an issue if the tires are properly inflated.

Merlin, Chain Reaction, or Jenson. I got a good deal from Jenson since their shipping was free at the time. Last year I got a great deal on some tires from Merlin that included some tubes too.


Check around you can find some good deals.

Thanks everyone. I was initially leaning towards the 25mm but based on the recommendation printed on the wheels I decided on 28mm. Now I am having trouble deciding between the 25mm and 28mm

Go w 28'S you will be happy with the choice.