different sized tires on front than back?
07-27-10 | 05:11 PM
#1
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different sized tires on front than back?
ok, another tire question. right now i have 700x25 on the back and 700x28 on the front.
not sure if this makes a difference, does anyone know? (the shop put the 28 on without me saying i wanted it and they didn't have a 25 so i just took it home without questioning). would you have a 28 on the back instead?
not sure if this makes a difference, does anyone know? (the shop put the 28 on without me saying i wanted it and they didn't have a 25 so i just took it home without questioning). would you have a 28 on the back instead?
07-27-10 | 05:18 PM
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07-27-10 | 05:19 PM
#6
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Here's an article by Sheldon regarding this topic.
Originally Posted by Sheldon
- Narrower Front, Wider Rear
If lightness is the primary goal, tire width/weight is limited by the risk of pinch cut flats, a.k.a. "snake bites." Since there is more weight carried on the rear tire, you can get away with a slightly narrower tire in front than you can in back. - Wider Front, Narrower Rear
A wider front tire makes sense in many applications, however, when handling and ride comfort are considered. A wider tire will generally provide better cornering traction than a narrower one, assuming appropriate inflation pressure. A wider tire also provides superior shock absorbency. I personally prefer a slightly wider tire in front, since I suffer from some wrist discomfort on occasion.
07-27-10 | 05:23 PM
#7
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From: Ciudad de Vacas, Tejas
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Yes, in those cases where I have different sizes, the wider tire is on the the rear. Reason, more weight on rear than front, so can run about same pressure in both tires. Also, steering is easier with a smaller front tire and a larger rear is less likely to get pinch flats.
07-27-10 | 05:29 PM
#9
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Bikes: klein quantum, litespeed tuscany, bianchi pista concept, centurion comp ta, centurion super le mans, traitor ringleader
i go with slightly larger in front. supposedly better handling, and a bit more cushion/comfort on wrists.
07-27-10 | 05:59 PM
#10
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The reason behind it is actually on old BMX thing. The tire on the front is wider and has a larger contact patch which allows for more grip on the wheel that steers and more slip on the non-steering wheel. Plus, less rotational weight on the rear allows for faster 'wind-up' and acceleration. Another way of doing it, minus the reduced rotational weight, is to run LESS air in the front tire and MORE in the rear tire.
Mike
Mike
07-27-10 | 06:36 PM
#11
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Currently my single speed mountain bike has a Fat Frank in front (26X2.35) and a Fat Boy (26X1.25) in the rear. The only problem with my set-up is now I have a slopping top tube.
As most fixed gear riders know, it's no big deal to skid a rear wheel, or to even have it wash out a little. If you front tire starts to skid, bad things happen very quickly. A wider tire up front minimizes the risk of this by providing more traction due to the wider contact patch.
As most fixed gear riders know, it's no big deal to skid a rear wheel, or to even have it wash out a little. If you front tire starts to skid, bad things happen very quickly. A wider tire up front minimizes the risk of this by providing more traction due to the wider contact patch.
