Tire/Brake Clearance
10-09-20, 04:45 PM
#1
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Tire/Brake Clearance
Hello,
I have about 3mm of clearance between the top of my tire and underside of the rim brake caliper. I'm using a 25c tire on a 17mm (internal width) rim. This particular bike is used only paved roads (no gravel, trails, etc). Does this seem like too little clearance? Would it be wise to downsize to a 23c tire?
Thanks.
I have about 3mm of clearance between the top of my tire and underside of the rim brake caliper. I'm using a 25c tire on a 17mm (internal width) rim. This particular bike is used only paved roads (no gravel, trails, etc). Does this seem like too little clearance? Would it be wise to downsize to a 23c tire?
Thanks.
Last edited by mrblue; 10-09-20 at 04:54 PM.
10-09-20, 04:53 PM
#2
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As long as the rim doesn't rub... you're good.
I like my pads close to the rim, some like them farther away.
I like my pads close to the rim, some like them farther away.
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10-09-20, 04:54 PM
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Thanks for the input. I should have been more accurate in my description. I have ~3mm of clearance between the top of the tire and underside of the rim brake. Do you think this is enough clearance?
10-09-20, 04:57 PM
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My bike came with 23mm and i've had 25mm since the first set needed replacement. 28mm will not fit.
Some tires might not be as round and give more clearance.
10-09-20, 05:01 PM
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No guarantees, ymmv and all the rest of the disclaimers, but I think that's Ok. Or at least, that's about what I have as clearance on my rear.. but to the frame's brake bridge (which is pretty much the same question), and in the front, about 3mm on the left/right side to the fork (but well more than that above the tire. Never had a related issue.
10-09-20, 07:10 PM
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3mm. I ran a 25mm with a wider than stock rim and had 1mm clearance to the fork bridge. Plenty of clearance to brakes. Works ok but an a occasional pebble will get stuck. I think your ok just stay off roads with any gravel on tar.
10-09-20, 07:38 PM
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In my experience, 3mm is fine.
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10-09-20, 08:08 PM
#8
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I put as large a tire on as would fit as long as it doesn't rub. That currently is 28 front and 25 rear. I might be able to squeeze a 28 in the rear now after I redished the wheel so it is better centered at the top. I'd have to swap the tires just to see and that is more trouble than it is worth to me, especially since both tires are relatively new. Maybe next time I need to buy.
10-09-20, 08:38 PM
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Generally, frame manufacturers want to see 4mm of clearance, just for the sake of debris and whatnot, but you should be fine with 3mm.
