late

Hi,
I am using Panaracer Paselas TG 32c tires this year. The roads around here are getting worse and I am thinking about jumping up to a larger tire.

There is quite a large number of choices. Rivendell has one that's just a bit larger.
Then there is the Schwalbe marathon Supreme... And of course, the Pasela 35c, and the other usual suspects from Conti and the others.

But... no matter what brand I get the tires will add about a half a pound of weight.
That worries me. I like a light tire, but I don't know how long I can take the pounding from the crappy roads.

I figure you guys have more experience with beefy tires than anybody, so what should I do?

monkd

I just switched from Schwalbe Marathon 32's to Schwalbe XR 40's. I don't notice any difference in speed or rolling resistance. I'm sure there is a little bit but, I don't feel/perceive it. I do feel the difference going over bad roads, bumps, gravel roads, dirt roads and trails. Since putting on the tires I have about 350 miles and I love them. I also feel more confident that I won't pinch flat with my set up fully loaded.

monkd

lmzimmer

If you are already riding 32s and the roads are as bad as you say I doubt there will be any downside. Sure the tires will be a little heavier but it doesn't sound like you are riding a super light road bike- in which case you might notice a difference. I recently went from 28 to 32 on one of my bikes and noticed absolutely no difference. What size are you thinking of? Look around and check weights of various manufacturers. What kind of bike are you riding? Let us know if you make the change if you feel a difference.

staehpj1

I will offer a slightly dissenting opinion. If the tires are substantially heavier I definitely notice if I am riding with others that I am used to riding with. If riding alone you may just climb and accelerate a bit slower and not really notice.

There will be a difference, but it may be acceptable to you. How hilly it is where you ride and how much heavier the tires are will be the biggest factors.

Wanderer

I'm using Schwalbe Marathon Supremes 700X40c, on my Specialized Crosstrail (OEM's were 45c) and really like them a lot. They are Folders, and went on with my fingers with just a little swearing - not really bad at all.

They feel slower, but the avg speed on my daily loop hasn't changed at all. They roll very well, and the one place I roll all the way across the river without pedalling hasn't changed a bit, so it must just be perception.

They are nice and quiet when rolling, and I keep them at the max recommended 85 PSI.

They do actually measure 40mm on the ruler when mounted, and their inflated circumference (loaded) is 2194.

The really excell at cornering, making extremely smooth transitions, due to their round profile and the fact the the tread pattern is unbroken from bead to bead. Traction seems very good. No surprises when leaned over.

The reflex sidewall is awesome bright.

I like 'em.

acantor

An extra eight ounces is nothing to be concerned about on a touring bike. If you, your bike, and your luggage weigh 200 lbs, you will be hard-pressed to notice the 0.25% difference.

If bigger tires make you more comfortable, that's an great reason to switch.

late

I am a Clydesdale, and have a Gunnar Sport.. which is, of course, a sport bike.
Too bad you couldn't try a few different tires and see what you really liked.
Thanks for your thoughts. I like the idea of the Supremes; they sound like a wonderful tire.

Anyone know how they ride compared to a Pasela?

Wanderer

As an addendum, they ride much smoother than the Specialized Borrough XC Pro's they replaced. Which surprised me, considering the Burroughs were wider, and use the same pressure.

The "tread" is really deeper than it looks in pics, and they sure are surefooted. Corners are a joy compared to the Burroughs, with no knobby "roar."

Since I averaged 2.5 flats a week with the Burroughs, I'm hoping the flat resistance is real.

cyclotoine

In my experience schwalbe makes a better longer wearing tire than panaracer, I have seen the pacella shred on the inside and cause flats. I can't comment on the feel however.

donheff

My wife and I have the Burroughs CX Pros on our Tricrosses and have experienced an inordinate number of flats. I will be curious about your experience with the Marathons. Our tires have about 2000 miles on them now. How long do these things typically last?

Wanderer

I took mine off at about 1500 - I was running out of bulk patches!

It's been over a week, with the Supremes............................. and I can't say anything else................

thecrunge

I've got Marathon Supremes (700 x 35) as well, and so far after almost 3500 kms, some rough gravel and unexpectantly hit a few nasty rocks at speed, they're doing really well.

staehpj1

First, 8 ounces on your wheels is way worse than 8 ounces of baggage.

Second, 8 ounces here, a few ounces there, a few more ounces somewhere else and pretty quickly you are talking pounds. I found 1-2 pounds were quite noticeable when climbing. If I need to carry a couple pounds of extra water I notice. If I send home, eat, or throw away a couple pounds of stuff I notice. I will say that small differences are more noticeable when riding with others and you can't just drop the pace a bit.

I bought a set of Schwalbe Marathon Pluses and have been very unhappy how noticeable the weight is. I am too cheap to waste them, but I do wish I had bought something that weighed about half as much.

You may decide the extra weight is worth it, but it isn't "nothing to be concerned about".