Choosing the appropriate tire width
#1
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Choosing the appropriate tire width
I plan to use my cyclocross bike for road cycling. In particular, I'll start in a triathlon, where I'll need to do 45km on the bike. I would like to maintain the speed of 30km/h throughout the race. The bike is equipped now with 700x32c tires (specialized borough cx). Many people say that I should change them to some 25mm. However, I've read on this forum that narrower tires have greater rolling resistance.
What tire would you recommend in my case? Note that I don't plan to go much faster, I'd rather like to keep 30km/h for the whole 45km and be as "fresh" after the ride as possible.
What tire would you recommend in my case? Note that I don't plan to go much faster, I'd rather like to keep 30km/h for the whole 45km and be as "fresh" after the ride as possible.
#2
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I'm assuming pavement? Road slicks in the 23-28mm range would be appropriate depending on your weight. But what rim width do you have? That can be a limiter, too.
The narrower=more RR has more to do with over-inflation than width. A tire that is too hard will bounce on uneven pavement instead of absorbing the irregularities.
The narrower=more RR has more to do with over-inflation than width. A tire that is too hard will bounce on uneven pavement instead of absorbing the irregularities.
Last edited by canam73; 05-06-13 at 01:27 PM.
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I'd go with some 25s, plenty of good light tires in that size.
I wish there were more nice 28s to choose from...
I wish there were more nice 28s to choose from...
#5
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The 15 must mean internal width, and if so you should be able to run any traditional road tire. At your weight a 23mm at 100psi front and 110 rear is pretty standard, or go with a 25mm at a little less pressure if you like a smoother ride.
For tires, I don't know what your budget it, but Michelin Pro 4 Endurance are a good durable tire that still has a decent ride. I'd start there.
For tires, I don't know what your budget it, but Michelin Pro 4 Endurance are a good durable tire that still has a decent ride. I'd start there.
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23c or 25c, PRO4 or Conti 4000s. The smoother the surface, the narrower the tire. Aero will be a bigger deal than tires. Train in as low a position as you can set up.