Simple solid advice. 👍🏼 Right now i ride 32s on my hybrid which i find to be the perfect all around size. I mostly do road riding, but I live in NYC, and the roads aren’t the smoothest. The 32s are really fast for zipping thru traffic but can also handle the bumps just fine. I am also not afraid to go off road and ride some gravel or dirt roads either. If i was doing mostly off road, then sure, bigger would be better. But for me 32s got me covered.
25c can do smooth foot paths on your road bike no problem. Switched from 23mm because of being forced off the asphalt onto the dirt shoulder by traffic so often. That switch added tons of confidence, and a bit more comfort. Still quick on the road.
I finally moved from 23 to 25 road tyres, no downside. So I wondered about going to 28, then decided instead to go all the way to 32, no downside. Much safer on bad roads. 32 is the max on road before rolling resistance kicks in with a penalty, according to several studies. Off road, I just use my CX file tread 33s or mud tyres if necessary. Never tried bigger, except on a MTB, but I will see what I can squeeze in to my CX bike - glad I do not need to buy another bike to cover what gravel bikes do 1 year update - trying 35mm Schwalbe G One for winter, really good, still fast enough, and feels safer in the wet / snow.
35mm? How does that go on the road? I've got a Giant Contend Disc (road endurance bike) which I'm converting for on and off-road bikepacking. The largest tires it fits are 30 on the front and 32 on the back, however if I convert to 650b wheels, I can run 36mm front and back. I want the bike to be road-efficient, while still being capable of commuting off-road. I'm not after off-road performance, just commuting purpose. I'm also converting my gearing to lower gearing, I'm putting an 11-40t on the back via a Roadlink, and sub-compact 46/30 chainrings on the front which you can get on ebay for 44 USD plus another 7 USD for postage. The other option is I can go even smaller on the wheels with 25 inch, which would get me 38mm tires front and back. However I'm thinking that might be going too small, I lose considerably more wheel diameter while only making another 2mm tire width. Spindatt if you feel like chiming in too you're welcome! If it was just off-road, I'd probably go with the 26 inch wheels so I could get the 38s on there. However the thing I'm worried about using 26 inchers is the on-road performance. It's just an impression, I don't know if it's right or not, but they look like they wouldn't be very good rolling on the road. Any ideas about that?
I also run 35mm on my cyclocross bike. I would suggest for everyone who is just riding for fun, not to win a competition. They are much more comfortable and you can go in more terrains. On the street they are not really any slower. Unless you want to win a competition and want to tune your aerodynamics and stuff. Then it is another story.
I am going on a tour next month, it is going to be 95% on road, my bike comes with the same Schwalbe G one tires 35.. do you recommend to stay or change?
Mud Prince as long as you’re not racing you can tour with any tire. The only downside with touring with the g-one is you will begin to(or totally) wear out the tread depending on the distance. If you had the money and you do like using the g-ones on gravel/dirt i would prolly try to find some slicks to throw on there. Have fun, be safe! Like the wind
Imo the only reason cyclocross type tires exist is because of uci rules. A wider tire with less tread will be faster both on road and off than a narrow tire with more tread.
@marshallferron, actually with how muddy cyclocross courses can be, a “narrow” 33mm with knobbies may be the best... Not too big to float on top of the mud (causing wipeouts) and plenty of frame clearance for mud. I kind of compare it to my 35mm studded Marathon Winter tires on my commuter bike VS my studded 4.8’s on my Moonlander... Sometimes if the snowy roads are just right, the skinny 35mm is better, due to it cutting through the snow. Know what I mean? I’m sure this has something to do with mud also, since fatbikes are famous for not being good in mud. But yes, I do kind of agree with you. Either way, here on Iowa gravel roads, I find 700c/29 x 2.1-2.3 semi knobbies with a center tread perfect. For Dirty Kanza, I would probably use this size also, but probably a 1.9-2.1.
Excellent. I am trying to use a CX bike for gravel as well. The Specialized Crux or Focus Mares CX both with great tire clearance and thru axles seems to be two of the better selections.
Very good video mate don't discount your knowledge. Many seasoned riders do 1 discipline and have no idea about cyclocross or gravel. The piece around CX tires was great, always wondered about the feasibility of just using city tires for the exact reasons you mentioned..thanks
On my Kona Sutra Ltd I rotate between a 700x45c for year round commuting/dry trails and a 29x2.3” for muddy winter trails.
8 років тому+3
Thanks for the run through on different tire options. I'm riding 32c tires, but I'm thinking going wider the next time. I haven't had flat's, but more comfort would be nice.
I'm riding a Trek Boone 5. Carbon frame and fork with the iso decoupler that allows the seat tube to flex. The stock wheels were already pretty heavy so instead of adding rubber, I ended up going with 27.5" Mavic Crossmax wheels and 38c (1.5") tires. The reduced rotational weight (almost 2 lbs!) was dramatic and the bike now has real snap during standing efforts. Of course the whole bike is lower by about a 1/2" but since the bottom bracket was cross bike high to begin with, it still feels normal. Down sides are there aren't as many tire choices and top end gearing is reduced. Cheers!
Hi Spindatt..thank you for the video..comments...I do agree...I am using al 700x30 for now...just about to get a 700x30 due the winter...mud..wet... I have done bad roads with the 30 in summer...now is time to move up to 38...I am in the country side of Argentina.
Touring on ma Surly: Maxxis Overdrive Elite 700x35mm. Fantastic tyre - puncture-proof kevlar but also roll really fast and corner very smoothly. Highly recommended.
All my gravel rides have been a mix of dirt, gravel, and chipseal, out and back from the house. I don't have much phone service out there, and my rides are 20 to 50 miles. I've found that 26x1.75s or wider are best. I haven't had a flat on my touring tires in several thousand miles. They roll fast enough for me.
Nice vid Spindatt. Good for beginners. I have 3 bikes and too many different tyres. But i love swapping them out and playing with psi. I love all my tyres, and i don't have a favourite. I like all their unique properties, being Rolling resistance VS volume VS weight Tyres effect our bikes more than any other component VS low cost.
I roll 28s in my roadie. It came stock with 25c and 25s need min 90-100psi and its only good for smooth roads which i dont ride. Change to 28c it in fact roll faster on tarmac. Problem is usually road frames with rim brakes can take max 28c. Limited by frame/brake calipers. But i found problem is because there are so little clearance between tyres and frame/brake, if u just gone off road a little bit (eg grass/gravel) the tyres will pick up some foriegn object like dry grass or sand(if ur tyres just a little wet) and then jam it into the frame brakes. Very messy almost every trip i need to clean my brake calipers because there is almost no clearance between tyres and brakes on 28c. And if there is any dirt(especially sand) got stuck on the braking surface. Its pretty bad!! My bike is crashed my next bike will definitely be disc brakes, either gravel bike or just road with disc. Will be sticking on some 32-38c slick or commuter tyres (no studs mtb tyres) and its gonna be sweet. Crash my roadie on road doing 50km/h with healable injure. Never again going fast on roads
33mm Tracer tires are cheap and productive. I run them on Ar25 I9’s. I ride loops with road and logg roads endless on the Oregon coast. This tire size works well at 55-60 pounds. No matter what I can’t see well on the descends whatever, live a little.
Yup! I did a MTB ride with a few of my friends while I was on my Defy, Of course I was no where near as fast coming downhill, but I still finished the entire ride.
For me, gravel/road riding I generally use 32-40. Any bigger and I may as well take the MTB! Winter time calls for my 40s, warmer drier weather and I'm on 32s...✌️
I had riden 23c slick tires on really bad forest tracks pepered with rocks and boulders down in Transilvania, Romania with 2 other guys with MTB's. I was the first one on descents and on climbs. My lower back was feeling like shit at the end of the day but didn't had one puncture, those tires was pretty damn good. At least they where impresed about how my bike survived :)
I agree, mostly. Tire choice really comes down to three things: The gravel. The rider. The bike. I run Panaracer Gravel King SK 40's, because... the gravel I ride is smooth but can be deep in places. I'm a large human. My bike fits them no problem. Big tire = comfy all day. ;)
+Kurt Fossen every time I go from my road bikes to the Apollo with its 38's its always a comfort treat. I tend to forget how comfy a big tire actually is haha. Those are some good points, I always wish I could update videos I've made with the points from comments sections
I find where I ride now that my Santa Cruz blur is safer because I ride on roads without shoulders.If I have to hit the ditch the suspension and 1.5 Kenda road tires I am more comfortable it's like a sports car and hardly any flats my road bike has specialized all condition 25 c tires but thinner. I flatted with a piece of glass yesterday so I took the other bike that day.
I use 25 c tires on the road bike snd in 91 that was considered a little wide. Now I want to go bigger but my kestrel fork is already crowded. I do have a 38 wide tire i may try on the back mostly to see if it will work
Gravel/adventure needs to be recognised as a separate category, just like Road and MTB. It also needs it's own subcategories, because right now, whether you want a burly road bike, a light off-road bike, or a touring bike, you're in the same category and are limited to the same choice of gear. The image of drop bars is burned in the mind of most as "road equipment", but the needs of adventure riders are often completely alien to those of road riders. Many people use their gravel bikes the same way people use an XC mountain bike. Being limited to just MTB or Road groupsets is... well, limiting. And the choice of tyres is very small, especially if you want tubeless capability.
Not sure about this mate. I always had road bikes and single speeds with 23-25 mm tires and those are harsh even on the tarmacs around my area. Currently have 28 mm on my single speed and that is significantly better but now looking into getting a gravel bike for bike packing and weekend adventures. One of hte main criteria is to accommodate the largest tires possible. Wouldn't get anything under 40 mm but ideally hoping to fit 50 mm tires on it although that on 650b wheels. Actually looking at Cube Nuroad EX that comes with 700c 40 mm tires and manufacturer stating you can fit up to 45 mm without mudguards. Well I will invest in a set of 650b wheels and see what is the widest tire I can fit. Depending on the road I am heading to I can swop them around in no time. Will keep the 700c 40 mm for committing and will change it to 650b with wide tires for gravel. Especially if someone about to get a gravel bike the ones that comes with 32-35ish tires just doesn't make any sense. You can fit them o na roadbike too. Actually it's dumb from the manufacturers to make gravel bikes that barely have any tire clearance.
My range is 35-45c designations for the relaxed road bike type frame. There is a reason that is being put on the gravel drop bar bikes today. Getting the most for both smooth asphalt & whatever stone/rock gravel one encounters. For 28-32c (1 1/8-1 1/4 on the older 27 inch rims are quite capable on gravel) are quite capable on the right bike too. One can even SS/FG on gravel. with 28-32c tires. It's not like you're going to be racing thru that kind of terrain anyway. Touring bikes of the 70's & 80's handle just fine on certain lousy road surfaces such as gravel, even with panniers and a full load. You would be surprised at what a Continental Tour Ride tread pattern does on gravel. Smaller knobbies, even some of the larger treads may not be any better traction under certain conditions and are unnecessary quite often. I have a 1986 Touring bike that has 28-630 (27x 1 1/8) rims & tires that don't suck and that bikes been rode alongside & in railroad granite beds. Being cromoly frame & fork, a relatively a smooth & comfortable ride for gravel/rocks and that was comparing the same terrain with a 26x1.75 or 26x2.10 atb tire on a 1997 atb frame made of 1020 carbon steel.
Basically, if you ride on roads, and drop into some dirt and gravel, as part of the big ride, go 38. If you ride your gravel bike mostly off-road, go 40-42.
I'm just now upsizing from 23mm to 28 in the back and 25 on the front for my road bike. I can't wait to feel the comfort. Hopefully the 28 will fit in the frame. :)
+Spindatt Specialized S-Works Aluminum frame from about 10 years ago. I ordered a Vittoria Rubino Pro because I heard they measure more like 27mm, which should be perfect. On somewhat narrow Mavic Kryserium Elite rims. If not, it'll go on the front. I already rode just one 25mm tire in the back and it was much different, much smoother ride. Now I want even bigger.
+Photo314159 why not go with two 28's? I'm running a pair of 26's on my f5, and loving it a lot. I want to try the Rubino as well... Well actually I want to try the open corsa in a bigger size. I can't imagine it would make me really fast, or that I could push them to their limit but I still want them haha
+Spindatt Not doing two 28's only because I already have a new 25mm tire. Maybe at the next tire swap. I love the Rubino Pro's though. The last set (Old series) lasted a looong time and never got a puncture.
Just did the Belgian Waffle Ride (73 mile "wafer" distance) on Clement MSO 'Xplor tires in 40mm, and they were awesome for the 28 miles of dirt, sand, gravel and small rock gardens - as well as traction up and down some steep dirt pitches. Not the best tire for the 45 miles of pavement :), but I managed. I can't imagine how people got through some of those sections on 28mm road tires. I think I might give the IRC Serac Sand CX or Schwalbe X-One Speed tires a go next year to pick up a little speed on the pavement, but hopefully not die on the dirt/sand sectors.
I second the MSO’s. After trying several tires on my Crossrip, I settled on these and I have not felt the need to change in over a year. I still run tubes and have never flatted with them at 210lbs never exceeding 50 psi. Awesome tire!
I'm looking at getting the new Specialized Sequoia Tour/Gravel/BikePacking bike. It comes with 700c X 42 tires with through axels and disc brakes with a chromoly steel frame.
you make alot of good points but when you want to take your road bike off road and I know i have taken a road bike on dirt trails so why not put tanus armor insurts in your road tire ?
i use the specialized pathfinder pro 2bliss 700c 42mm tire on my gravel bike, i'm as fast if not faster than just about any road bike on the roads and off road they give enough grip for everything but mud which i tend to avoid even on a full blown MTB
Nice video man. I just purchased a Fuji Tread 1.1 Disc which comes with 700x35c's on it but I have a pair of Michelin's CX 700x30c's that are going on there.
Bike noob here, several years late.. I've just swapped my tires from Schwalbe Marathon Plus 27.5x2.25, to Schwalbe Big Ben 2.0.. it's a MTB, but I use it mostly for commuting to work on roads/gravel paths anyway.. is that a good move? Also the PSI limit is 70 and I want as little rolling resistance as possible, anybody have suggestions?
Between 23mm and 28mm ... Is it an extra 5 mm between rim and road? It's the width not depth, no? I do hope gravel bikes come with options to choose tires - slick, hybrid or knobbly
i wanna wanna cycle across Australia on my road bike but my tire only goes up to 28mm is that big enough sticking mostly to road maybe some gravel to find sleeping spots i joined a facebook bike touring group and there all into there fat touring tires but i dont wanna but a new bike i might just try do it
So, I just picked up a Salsa Fargo with 29 x 2.6" tires. I don't know where those rate- mtb cross? Anyway, I wanted something that is the Renegade of bikes (skidoo reference there) that is capable in just about any situation.
Thanks! I've been looking at gravel bikes and thinking about trying wider tires on my road bike, so this was a helpful video! Do you have any thoughts on the 2016 Raleigh Roper you had in this video? I'd love to see more on that bike!
+Mark Fredericks definitely give it a whirl! It's pretty surprising how much a small volume tire will allow you to ride! I pretty much love everything Raleigh is doing right now. This years roper pretty cool, basically a steel hybrid. I'll feature it on the next->next shop stop-in video for ya!
+TheStudentCyclist That would be awesome! I agree, Raleigh is making some seriously cool bikes lately. It looks like the Roper could fit wider tires than comes standard. I wonder how the 650b's from the Redux would fit...
I ride a CX bike 70% on tarmac and 20% fine gravel and 10% dirt. I currently use 32mm wide road Vittorias and wonder what tires should I get for a new wheelset I intend to buy during winter for the next season.
New sub, love the videos. I just picked up a GT ZRX, early 2000's with 105 and looking for a gravel road, trail and pavement tire. What do you think of the GP Cyclocross Speeds or the Clements X’PLOR USH's in your video and how do the prices compare. I will be commuting from Enfield to the Fall River Transit Bus so during the summer I will be using my Trek Emonda with 25mm but I can also save time by climbing Oldham Road to Perrin Drive (Part Gravel)
I have a hybrid that i want to be comfortable on gravel has 700x38c on now at :25 seconds in this video, those wider, smooth tires on the blue framed bike. I want tires with that tread pattern. I'm just having trouble figuring out (well, finding the info) how wide of a tire can replace a 38c, or does it have to be the same unless the wheel is switched?
I am riding Schwalbe Lugano 700x25 tires and I have not gotten a flat. I take every off road trail I come across like you mentioned. The TPI on these is only 50. I am trying to figure out what tire to get next.
Spindatt I thought I could get some better performing tires but maybe you're right. I should just stick with what works. I have never tried any other tire.
Hi.. i ride a fuji tread 1.5D.. stock comes with 32c tires.. I’m interested in the panaracer gravel king 38c.. will those fit? Rims are clinchers.. and if it does fit, will i need to replace my tubes?
So if I'm doing an 70/30 or 80/20 or 90/10 road / gravel or dirt split respectively, what would you suggest running everyday in and out without needing to switch tires constantly and pointlessly? I feel like 28 is a bit too light, which puts me at roughly a 30 or 32. I don't feel like there is a need to go much wider than that with primary road riding, while offering a smoother ride on the road but still plenty wide enough to let me hit those dirt or gravel roads relatively fine until I wanted to throw on some beefy tread and get back out there and completely slay it.
+CaliforniaBearMD I'd pretty well agree. If my road bike could fit a nice 32mm tire in it that's what I would have in there. Considering the limit for cross is 33mm, a smooth 32mm would be perfect in my opinion. Racing on 33's kind of proves to me that it is plenty wide for a tonne of terrains and still plenty fast on the road.
Enjoy watching your stuff! Especially since i'm a tinkerer myself. That's part of the problem i have.. i'm really inclined to splurge for a gravel/touring rig but i'm having so much fun on my monstercross i built from an old steel GT mountainbike.. What to do? I really want to need a new bike.
I would say yes, but more-so because you're getting some "cushion" on the land with a bigger tire. You're also able to run a bit lower PSI with a bigger tire, so more grip on loose surfaces. When I think about landing a small jump on a set of 28c tires with 60-80 PSI I can feel my forehead hitting the ground already.
Great video, easy to tell, you have experience with the subject matter. I am just starting out with gravel riding and bought an aluminum frame bike. Can you do a video on frame material for gravel bikes. I would think that a carbon frame bike would be at risk from damage due to flying stones etc. I know carbon is lighter but for a few pounds why take the chance.
+Tuco Webster thanks! I have my own experience, pushing the cheap stuff I've got as far as I can! Haha I like that idea! Probably talk about that in an upcoming video this week.
thanks for your vids ! I have always been in to bikes but have been a bit lazy lately. You have given me some new motivation to play with my bikes :D Cheers from Australia ;)
Another great vid in the books entertaining and informative. Really enjoy the "cut frame" style commentary at the end. ***Have relayed info, we now join "random thoughts" in my mind with The Student Cyclist***
+StilettoImages I must admit pretty much everything I said in this one was random thoughts from past riding experiences hahaha thanks for the nice words
+Lennart Meinke hmmm, that'd a pretty massive range in tire sizing haha My guess is it would be because the bike would need to be far too long in the chainstays for there to be clearance for monster truck tires and a standard road crankset
Search up your rim, find the internal diameter, then and have a look at this www.wtb.com/pages/tire-rim-fit-chart# then you will know. You could also search the rim specifications on the manufactures website and they might specify the sizes of tyres that will fit.
+Bruce Smithhammer on gravel sections there isn't really, but for road riding in between gravel sections it's a little smoother and faster. That's just my 2 cents really. The only real reason I am limited in tire size is chainstay clearance. I'd run a 650b+ set up if I had the money and room for it haha
+BalbonTon they fit! With room to spare actually. Hell I would be interested in trying to squeeze some 30's in there just for fun haha. I'll shoot some footage of the clearance and put it in the next "IJRLB" episode so you can have a look. Thanks for the nice words.
I rode the Dirty Kanza 205 miles , Red River Riot 145 miles, and Dirty Fury Stage Rush 109 miles. All on the same tire set up. All with no punctures. But I used 35mm tires and I'm far from a pro. Just got tired of changing flats...and the whole setup (both tires) costs less than $50. ua-cam.com/video/cgOSiecPafw/v-deo.html
Thanks (again)! I'm new to gravel riding with an all road (cross?) bike, but I decided to just go nuts and do it anyway. I'm 6'1 and weigh 282 lbs (187cm 128kg) on a set of 28" tires - I loved it! Did it again, loved it! There is a video on my channel about it: ua-cam.com/video/lpH7Td6FBFk/v-deo.html I've ordered a pair of 32" continental grand prix 4 season for comfort and because we don't really have much of a summer in Sweden....
I have a million opinions about the best ones haha but I still believe Pasela’s are an amazing tire choice. I love them. However, I’m extremely into Nano’s. Now that they are gum wall: yes.
Simple solid advice. 👍🏼 Right now i ride 32s on my hybrid which i find to be the perfect all around size. I mostly do road riding, but I live in NYC, and the roads aren’t the smoothest. The 32s are really fast for zipping thru traffic but can also handle the bumps just fine. I am also not afraid to go off road and ride some gravel or dirt roads either. If i was doing mostly off road, then sure, bigger would be better. But for me 32s got me covered.
Rubino Pro G+ comes in 30. I find that the perfect balance for urban and dirt roads along with being quick on the asphalt.
Ι bought a 26" rigid fork MTB to my son and I took out the MTB tyres and I pet 32mm slick tires, the bike totally transformed
I love the Conti GP 5000 Tubeless in 32mm on my Moots GRAVEL bike when group riding on primarily tarmac surfaced roads. Great video. Thanks.
Can you ride these on gravel? Also are they any slower than say a 25?
Thanks mate - surprising how this topic is so rarely covered.
Oh boy how this changed
25c can do smooth foot paths on your road bike no problem. Switched from 23mm because of being forced off the asphalt onto the dirt shoulder by traffic so often.
That switch added tons of confidence, and a bit more comfort. Still quick on the road.
I finally moved from 23 to 25 road tyres, no downside. So I wondered about going to 28, then decided instead to go all the way to 32, no downside. Much safer on bad roads. 32 is the max on road before rolling resistance kicks in with a penalty, according to several studies. Off road, I just use my CX file tread 33s or mud tyres if necessary. Never tried bigger, except on a MTB, but I will see what I can squeeze in to my CX bike - glad I do not need to buy another bike to cover what gravel bikes do
1 year update - trying 35mm Schwalbe G One for winter, really good, still fast enough, and feels safer in the wet / snow.
35mm? How does that go on the road?
I've got a Giant Contend Disc (road endurance bike) which I'm converting for on and off-road bikepacking. The largest tires it fits are 30 on the front and 32 on the back, however if I convert to 650b wheels, I can run 36mm front and back.
I want the bike to be road-efficient, while still being capable of commuting off-road. I'm not after off-road performance, just commuting purpose.
I'm also converting my gearing to lower gearing, I'm putting an 11-40t on the back via a Roadlink, and sub-compact 46/30 chainrings on the front which you can get on ebay for 44 USD plus another 7 USD for postage.
The other option is I can go even smaller on the wheels with 25 inch, which would get me 38mm tires front and back. However I'm thinking that might be going too small, I lose considerably more wheel diameter while only making another 2mm tire width.
Spindatt if you feel like chiming in too you're welcome! If it was just off-road, I'd probably go with the 26 inch wheels so I could get the 38s on there. However the thing I'm worried about using 26 inchers is the on-road performance. It's just an impression, I don't know if it's right or not, but they look like they wouldn't be very good rolling on the road. Any ideas about that?
I also run 35mm on my cyclocross bike. I would suggest for everyone who is just riding for fun, not to win a competition. They are much more comfortable and you can go in more terrains. On the street they are not really any slower. Unless you want to win a competition and want to tune your aerodynamics and stuff. Then it is another story.
I am going on a tour next month, it is going to be 95% on road, my bike comes with the same Schwalbe G one tires 35.. do you recommend to stay or change?
Mud Prince as long as you’re not racing you can tour with any tire. The only downside with touring with the g-one is you will begin to(or totally) wear out the tread depending on the distance. If you had the money and you do like using the g-ones on gravel/dirt i would prolly try to find some slicks to throw on there. Have fun, be safe! Like the wind
Imo the only reason cyclocross type tires exist is because of uci rules. A wider tire with less tread will be faster both on road and off than a narrow tire with more tread.
@marshallferron, actually with how muddy cyclocross courses can be, a “narrow” 33mm with knobbies may be the best... Not too big to float on top of the mud (causing wipeouts) and plenty of frame clearance for mud.
I kind of compare it to my 35mm studded Marathon Winter tires on my commuter bike VS my studded 4.8’s on my Moonlander... Sometimes if the snowy roads are just right, the skinny 35mm is better, due to it cutting through the snow. Know what I mean? I’m sure this has something to do with mud also, since fatbikes are famous for not being good in mud.
But yes, I do kind of agree with you.
Either way, here on Iowa gravel roads, I find 700c/29 x 2.1-2.3 semi knobbies with a center tread perfect. For Dirty Kanza, I would probably use this size also, but probably a 1.9-2.1.
Excellent. I am trying to use a CX bike for gravel as well. The Specialized Crux or Focus Mares CX both with great tire clearance and thru axles seems to be two of the better selections.
Very good video mate don't discount your knowledge. Many seasoned riders do 1 discipline and have no idea about cyclocross or gravel. The piece around CX tires was great, always wondered about the feasibility of just using city tires for the exact reasons you mentioned..thanks
On my Kona Sutra Ltd I rotate between a 700x45c for year round commuting/dry trails and a 29x2.3” for muddy winter trails.
Thanks for the run through on different tire options. I'm riding 32c tires, but I'm thinking going wider the next time. I haven't had flat's, but more comfort would be nice.
I'm riding a Trek Boone 5. Carbon frame and fork with the iso decoupler that allows the seat tube to flex. The stock wheels were already pretty heavy so instead of adding rubber, I ended up going with 27.5" Mavic Crossmax wheels and 38c (1.5") tires. The reduced rotational weight (almost 2 lbs!) was dramatic and the bike now has real snap during standing efforts. Of course the whole bike is lower by about a 1/2" but since the bottom bracket was cross bike high to begin with, it still feels normal. Down sides are there aren't as many tire choices and top end gearing is reduced. Cheers!
40 to 50mm, basically. I agree with you 100%. I like the widest tires my frame and wheels will take.
Hi Spindatt..thank you for the video..comments...I do agree...I am using al 700x30 for now...just about to get a 700x30 due the winter...mud..wet... I have done bad roads with the 30 in summer...now is time to move up to 38...I am in the country side of Argentina.
Touring on ma Surly: Maxxis Overdrive Elite 700x35mm. Fantastic tyre - puncture-proof kevlar but also roll really fast and corner very smoothly. Highly recommended.
It is videos like this that earn subscriptions. Great job!
+UrbanWanderer thanks! This video really kind of took off haha
Spindatt nice!
All my gravel rides have been a mix of dirt, gravel, and chipseal, out and back from the house. I don't have much phone service out there, and my rides are 20 to 50 miles.
I've found that 26x1.75s or wider are best. I haven't had a flat on my touring tires in several thousand miles. They roll fast enough for me.
Nice vid Spindatt.
Good for beginners.
I have 3 bikes and too many different tyres. But i love swapping them out and playing with psi.
I love all my tyres, and i don't have a favourite. I like all their unique properties, being
Rolling resistance VS volume VS weight
Tyres effect our bikes more than any other component VS low cost.
I roll 28s in my roadie. It came stock with 25c and 25s need min 90-100psi and its only good for smooth roads which i dont ride. Change to 28c it in fact roll faster on tarmac. Problem is usually road frames with rim brakes can take max 28c. Limited by frame/brake calipers. But i found problem is because there are so little clearance between tyres and frame/brake, if u just gone off road a little bit (eg grass/gravel) the tyres will pick up some foriegn object like dry grass or sand(if ur tyres just a little wet) and then jam it into the frame brakes. Very messy almost every trip i need to clean my brake calipers because there is almost no clearance between tyres and brakes on 28c. And if there is any dirt(especially sand) got stuck on the braking surface. Its pretty bad!! My bike is crashed my next bike will definitely be disc brakes, either gravel bike or just road with disc. Will be sticking on some 32-38c slick or commuter tyres (no studs mtb tyres) and its gonna be sweet. Crash my roadie on road doing 50km/h with healable injure. Never again going fast on roads
Great vid bro, yeah good info on tires, I own a Diverge and the world is my oyster for any tire I want to use😄🤓
33mm Tracer tires are cheap and productive. I run them on Ar25 I9’s. I ride loops with road and logg roads endless on the Oregon coast. This tire size works well at 55-60 pounds. No matter what I can’t see well on the descends whatever, live a little.
Those 40mm clement mso's are awesome! Did already more then 10000km on them and still good....
+Barry Kwaaitaal that's actually awesome to hear! I keep eyeing up a set while at the shop all day, but I'm always scared to have nice stuff haha
I just fit some 700x30 mavic all-road tire on my 2015 Giant Defy Advanced, and it's bad ass, im hitting fire roads without a problem!
30’s are super capable! And they still make people think you’re crazy.. that’s probably my favourite part.
Yup! I did a MTB ride with a few of my friends while I was on my Defy, Of course I was no where near as fast coming downhill, but I still finished the entire ride.
I love this!
I like my turbo pro 28’s cause they’re fast anywhere and super tuff
For me, gravel/road riding I generally use 32-40. Any bigger and I may as well take the MTB! Winter time calls for my 40s, warmer drier weather and I'm on 32s...✌️
I had riden 23c slick tires on really bad forest tracks pepered with rocks and boulders down in Transilvania, Romania with 2 other guys with MTB's. I was the first one on descents and on climbs. My lower back was feeling like shit at the end of the day but didn't had one puncture, those tires was pretty damn good. At least they where impresed about how my bike survived :)
I agree, mostly. Tire choice really comes down to three things:
The gravel.
The rider.
The bike.
I run Panaracer Gravel King SK 40's, because... the gravel I ride is smooth but can be deep in places. I'm a large human. My bike fits them no problem. Big tire = comfy all day. ;)
+Kurt Fossen every time I go from my road bikes to the Apollo with its 38's its always a comfort treat. I tend to forget how comfy a big tire actually is haha. Those are some good points, I always wish I could update videos I've made with the points from comments sections
Super great video. I'm looking at getting some Continental "At Ride" 40 - 622 tires.
I find where I ride now that my Santa Cruz blur is safer because I ride on roads without shoulders.If I have to hit the ditch the suspension and 1.5 Kenda road tires I am more comfortable it's like a sports car and hardly any flats my road bike has specialized all condition 25 c tires but thinner. I flatted with a piece of glass yesterday so I took the other bike that day.
nice insight and informative, i like that you express your view from experience.
I use 25 c tires on the road bike snd in 91 that was considered a little wide. Now I want to go bigger but my kestrel fork is already crowded. I do have a 38 wide tire i may try on the back mostly to see if it will work
Gravel/adventure needs to be recognised as a separate category, just like Road and MTB. It also needs it's own subcategories, because right now, whether you want a burly road bike, a light off-road bike, or a touring bike, you're in the same category and are limited to the same choice of gear. The image of drop bars is burned in the mind of most as "road equipment", but the needs of adventure riders are often completely alien to those of road riders. Many people use their gravel bikes the same way people use an XC mountain bike.
Being limited to just MTB or Road groupsets is... well, limiting. And the choice of tyres is very small, especially if you want tubeless capability.
I'm trying 37c Riddlers on mine, wouldn't mind test fitting some 40s depending on clearances
Not sure about this mate. I always had road bikes and single speeds with 23-25 mm tires and those are harsh even on the tarmacs around my area. Currently have 28 mm on my single speed and that is significantly better but now looking into getting a gravel bike for bike packing and weekend adventures. One of hte main criteria is to accommodate the largest tires possible. Wouldn't get anything under 40 mm but ideally hoping to fit 50 mm tires on it although that on 650b wheels. Actually looking at Cube Nuroad EX that comes with 700c 40 mm tires and manufacturer stating you can fit up to 45 mm without mudguards. Well I will invest in a set of 650b wheels and see what is the widest tire I can fit. Depending on the road I am heading to I can swop them around in no time. Will keep the 700c 40 mm for committing and will change it to 650b with wide tires for gravel. Especially if someone about to get a gravel bike the ones that comes with 32-35ish tires just doesn't make any sense. You can fit them o na roadbike too. Actually it's dumb from the manufacturers to make gravel bikes that barely have any tire clearance.
My range is 35-45c designations for the relaxed road bike type frame. There is a reason that is being put on the gravel drop bar bikes today. Getting the most for both smooth asphalt & whatever stone/rock gravel one encounters. For 28-32c (1 1/8-1 1/4 on the older 27 inch rims are quite capable on gravel) are quite capable on the right bike too. One can even SS/FG on gravel. with 28-32c tires. It's not like you're going to be racing thru that kind of terrain anyway. Touring bikes of the 70's & 80's handle just fine on certain lousy road surfaces such as gravel, even with panniers and a full load. You would be surprised at what a Continental Tour Ride tread pattern does on gravel. Smaller knobbies, even some of the larger treads may not be any better traction under certain conditions and are unnecessary quite often. I have a 1986 Touring bike that has 28-630 (27x 1 1/8) rims & tires that don't suck and that bikes been rode alongside & in railroad granite beds. Being cromoly frame & fork, a relatively a smooth & comfortable ride for gravel/rocks and that was comparing the same terrain with a 26x1.75 or 26x2.10 atb tire on a 1997 atb frame made of 1020 carbon steel.
You want to go really big? Try Maxxis Hookworm or Maxxis Grifter as they come in 2.50 inch.
Basically, if you ride on roads, and drop into some dirt and gravel, as part of the big ride, go 38. If you ride your gravel bike mostly off-road, go 40-42.
@B2theM 1 ypu could. Just a little weight and aerodynamics
I'm just now upsizing from 23mm to 28 in the back and 25 on the front for my road bike. I can't wait to feel the comfort. Hopefully the 28 will fit in the frame. :)
+Photo314159 the difference should be quite noticeable! What kind of bike is it?
+Spindatt Specialized S-Works Aluminum frame from about 10 years ago. I ordered a Vittoria Rubino Pro because I heard they measure more like 27mm, which should be perfect. On somewhat narrow Mavic Kryserium Elite rims. If not, it'll go on the front. I already rode just one 25mm tire in the back and it was much different, much smoother ride. Now I want even bigger.
+Photo314159 why not go with two 28's? I'm running a pair of 26's on my f5, and loving it a lot. I want to try the Rubino as well... Well actually I want to try the open corsa in a bigger size. I can't imagine it would make me really fast, or that I could push them to their limit but I still want them haha
+Spindatt Not doing two 28's only because I already have a new 25mm tire. Maybe at the next tire swap. I love the Rubino Pro's though. The last set (Old series) lasted a looong time and never got a puncture.
Very informative video, Thank you! I am so confused about cycle tires!
Just did the Belgian Waffle Ride (73 mile "wafer" distance) on Clement MSO 'Xplor tires in 40mm, and they were awesome for the 28 miles of dirt, sand, gravel and small rock gardens - as well as traction up and down some steep dirt pitches. Not the best tire for the 45 miles of pavement :), but I managed. I can't imagine how people got through some of those sections on 28mm road tires. I think I might give the IRC Serac Sand CX or Schwalbe X-One Speed tires a go next year to pick up a little speed on the pavement, but hopefully not die on the dirt/sand sectors.
I use 30psi in the 40mm MSO's on rough gravel, and 45psi on tarmac sections. They roll pretty well on the road with more pressure. (81kg/180lb rider)
I second the MSO’s. After trying several tires on my Crossrip, I settled on these and I have not felt the need to change in over a year. I still run tubes and have never flatted with them at 210lbs never exceeding 50 psi. Awesome tire!
I'm looking at getting the new Specialized Sequoia Tour/Gravel/BikePacking bike. It comes with 700c X 42 tires with through axels and disc brakes with a chromoly steel frame.
heavy.. mechanical discs.. its realy a touring bike, not a true gravel. 2018 Diverge would me my choice
you make alot of good points but when you want to take your road bike off road and I know i have taken a road bike on dirt trails so why not put tanus armor insurts in your road tire ?
i use the specialized pathfinder pro 2bliss 700c 42mm tire on my gravel bike, i'm as fast if not faster than just about any road bike on the roads and off road they give enough grip for everything but mud which i tend to avoid even on a full blown MTB
Thanks for the review. I am considering a set for my own ride.
Nice video man. I just purchased a Fuji Tread 1.1 Disc which comes with 700x35c's on it but I have a pair of Michelin's CX 700x30c's that are going on there.
+D Hal 30's will be pretty great for spending a bit of time on some crusher dust and hammering pedals on the road. How are you liking it so far?
Bike noob here, several years late.. I've just swapped my tires from Schwalbe Marathon Plus 27.5x2.25, to Schwalbe Big Ben 2.0.. it's a MTB, but I use it mostly for commuting to work on roads/gravel paths anyway.. is that a good move? Also the PSI limit is 70 and I want as little rolling resistance as possible, anybody have suggestions?
Im having 32 rear, 30 front with 23 inner width rim. Just doing road traveling few days a week. So far so good.
+aezif dhom I find 32’s to be a pretty great mix of road/off road riding. Especially with that wide of a rim. What wheels are you using?
32 rear and 30 front is exactly what I'm running on my Giant Contend Disc at the moment. It's the biggest the Contend will take with 700c wheels!
Between 23mm and 28mm ... Is it an extra 5 mm between rim and road? It's the width not depth, no?
I do hope gravel bikes come with options to choose tires - slick, hybrid or knobbly
Depth is what matters for comfort.
Saw a Raliegh Merit 2 in your video. It came with a 700x28c tire, do you think I can get a wider tire on there? If so, any suggestions?
Love your music, same theme as the car passion channel
i wanna wanna cycle across Australia on my road bike but my tire only goes up to 28mm is that big enough sticking mostly to road maybe some gravel to find sleeping spots
i joined a facebook bike touring group and there all into there fat touring tires but i dont wanna but a new bike i might just try do it
So, I just picked up a Salsa Fargo with 29 x 2.6" tires. I don't know where those rate- mtb cross? Anyway, I wanted something that is the Renegade of bikes (skidoo reference there) that is capable in just about any situation.
Great comments. I'll lower the pressure on my Passelats to 50psi, can't wait to try them out. Any snow left in Halifax?
+Rob Bastien it's snowing right now actually haha
I commute/ride/everything with relatively low pressure in mine all the time!
Can i put 25c road tire on my gravel bike 30c?
Got a fitness bike with 28s...but would like to get 32 or 35s..wonder if they will fit.
Thanks! I've been looking at gravel bikes and thinking about trying wider tires on my road bike, so this was a helpful video!
Do you have any thoughts on the 2016 Raleigh Roper you had in this video? I'd love to see more on that bike!
+Mark Fredericks definitely give it a whirl! It's pretty surprising how much a small volume tire will allow you to ride!
I pretty much love everything Raleigh is doing right now. This years roper pretty cool, basically a steel hybrid. I'll feature it on the next->next shop stop-in video for ya!
+TheStudentCyclist That would be awesome! I agree, Raleigh is making some seriously cool bikes lately.
It looks like the Roper could fit wider tires than comes standard. I wonder how the 650b's from the Redux would fit...
I ride a CX bike 70% on tarmac and 20% fine gravel and 10% dirt. I currently use 32mm wide road Vittorias and wonder what tires should I get for a new wheelset I intend to buy during winter for the next season.
File Tread gravel tires would probably fit your ticket. i.e. Panaracer Gravel King (slick version), Teravail Rampart, etc...
There are touring tyres as well
New sub, love the videos. I just picked up a GT ZRX, early 2000's with 105 and looking for a gravel road, trail and pavement tire. What do you think of the GP Cyclocross Speeds or the Clements X’PLOR USH's in your video and how do the prices compare. I will be commuting from Enfield to the Fall River Transit Bus so during the summer I will be using my Trek Emonda with 25mm but I can also save time by climbing Oldham Road to Perrin Drive (Part Gravel)
I have a hybrid that i want to be comfortable on gravel has 700x38c on now at :25 seconds in this video, those wider, smooth tires on the blue framed bike. I want tires with that tread pattern. I'm just having trouble figuring out (well, finding the info) how wide of a tire can replace a 38c, or does it have to be the same unless the wheel is switched?
I am riding Schwalbe Lugano 700x25 tires and I have not gotten a flat. I take every off road trail I come across like you mentioned. The TPI on these is only 50. I am trying to figure out what tire to get next.
+etobiCRACKscorpions if you've got something you like, why change it up?
Spindatt I thought I could get some better performing tires but maybe you're right. I should just stick with what works. I have never tried any other tire.
Hi.. i ride a fuji tread 1.5D.. stock comes with 32c tires.. I’m interested in the panaracer gravel king 38c.. will those fit? Rims are clinchers.. and if it does fit, will i need to replace my tubes?
Looking to get a gravel and road riding bike? Which bike should I go for it?
Have you ever tried Continental Raceking? I love it on ATB. They are impressive fast, so I think the wear can't be high.
+Jörg Peters I haven't! I do like the three sets of conti road tires I have though. I don't doubt for a second that they are good!
So if I'm doing an 70/30 or 80/20 or 90/10 road / gravel or dirt split respectively, what would you suggest running everyday in and out without needing to switch tires constantly and pointlessly?
I feel like 28 is a bit too light, which puts me at roughly a 30 or 32. I don't feel like there is a need to go much wider than that with primary road riding, while offering a smoother ride on the road but still plenty wide enough to let me hit those dirt or gravel roads relatively fine until I wanted to throw on some beefy tread and get back out there and completely slay it.
+CaliforniaBearMD I'd pretty well agree. If my road bike could fit a nice 32mm tire in it that's what I would have in there. Considering the limit for cross is 33mm, a smooth 32mm would be perfect in my opinion. Racing on 33's kind of proves to me that it is plenty wide for a tonne of terrains and still plenty fast on the road.
I'll wait until they make a 130c "gravel" (more like a fatbike) tire... 😁😁😁
I'll wait for a 420c tyre
Enjoy watching your stuff! Especially since i'm a tinkerer myself. That's part of the problem i have.. i'm really inclined to splurge for a gravel/touring rig but i'm having so much fun on my monstercross i built from an old steel GT mountainbike.. What to do? I really want to need a new bike.
Are bigger road bike tires better for handling jumps and drops?????
I would say yes, but more-so because you're getting some "cushion" on the land with a bigger tire. You're also able to run a bit lower PSI with a bigger tire, so more grip on loose surfaces. When I think about landing a small jump on a set of 28c tires with 60-80 PSI I can feel my forehead hitting the ground already.
Great video, easy to tell, you have experience with the subject matter. I am just starting out with gravel riding and bought an aluminum frame bike. Can you do a video on frame material for gravel bikes. I would think that a carbon frame bike would be at risk from damage due to flying stones etc. I know carbon is lighter but for a few pounds why take the chance.
+Tuco Webster thanks! I have my own experience, pushing the cheap stuff I've got as far as I can! Haha
I like that idea! Probably talk about that in an upcoming video this week.
Great video. Very informative!
I want that 2016 willard 1 in the video! im looking at buying a 2017 but they only come in blue.. that white/black red is awesome!
+Matt Rahe buy this one! Haha
also, if i have wheels Shimano WHR501 C24 what kind of tire should I choose? thx
Still A topic. Thanks!
When i was young, in the 90 year, every body who ride a mtb, ride a bike with 1.80 , or 2 inch wide tire !
I need road wheels with thru axels disc brake accepting and like 28mm tires for my cannondale slate
thanks for your vids ! I have always been in to bikes but have been a bit lazy lately. You have given me some new motivation to play with my bikes :D Cheers from Australia ;)
Another great vid in the books entertaining and informative. Really enjoy the "cut frame" style commentary at the end. ***Have relayed info, we now join "random thoughts" in my mind with The Student Cyclist***
+StilettoImages I must admit pretty much everything I said in this one was random thoughts from past riding experiences hahaha thanks for the nice words
what exactly is the difference with a gravel bike vs a cyclocross bike with gravel style tires?
+daviddang82 I'm actually working on putting that video together, I get this question quite a bit
Why would you need background music on this video? Thanks for content though!
Great video man keep it up
I pretty much agree with you
Question;
Could I run a 28c road tire on Industry Nine (torch) mountain bike wheel? Thanks for you input!
Many tires will have a recommended minimum inside-rim-width for the rim they're on. I'd start there.
good day. may I ask how many spokes should a gravel bike have?
+Jose Rafael Laruta I wouldn't go any lower than 28
M TRXX. 600 × 38C..
What size is this..Plzz help
What's with the flat pedals on all the bikes?
+balleur test rides mostly
Why not take into consideration 26" tires, that are narrower and more slick than regular tractor-like mtb tires?
“Never ride tires narrower in millimeters than your waist size measured in inches.”
- Someone smarter than me.
This same music was in a Pet of the Month UA-cam video I saw the other month.
Why can't there be a do-it-all bike with clearance for 29+ and big chainrings for when you swap in some better pure road wheels?
+Lennart Meinke hmmm, that'd a pretty massive range in tire sizing haha
My guess is it would be because the bike would need to be far too long in the chainstays for there to be clearance for monster truck tires and a standard road crankset
Spindatt
That's interesting!
hi can i use my current wheelset for my 25c to fit a 32c tire?
Search up your rim, find the internal diameter, then and have a look at this www.wtb.com/pages/tire-rim-fit-chart# then you will know. You could also search the rim specifications on the manufactures website and they might specify the sizes of tyres that will fit.
Nice job.
I use disc on my gravel bike
Why ever use a 23mm tire? Even on road it makes no sense.
I have no idea why people ride such skinny tires (< 38c) on gravel. I see no advantages.
+Bruce Smithhammer on gravel sections there isn't really, but for road riding in between gravel sections it's a little smoother and faster. That's just my 2 cents really.
The only real reason I am limited in tire size is chainstay clearance. I'd run a 650b+ set up if I had the money and room for it haha
super helpful. thanks!
yo this is a jem of a video
gunna see what i can stuff into the 26r budget build
What bike brand is that around the 3 minute mark?
+Martijn Raleigh Roper, I actually made a video about it as well. It's a pretty cool steel commuter.
I have a 2014 felt f5 do you think 28 will fit?
+BalbonTon I think they will, but I'll try to fit my 28's into my f5 and report back
+Spindatt thanks! much appreciated! just subscribed to your channel keep it up man! much respect from the Philippines :)
+BalbonTon they fit! With room to spare actually. Hell I would be interested in trying to squeeze some 30's in there just for fun haha. I'll shoot some footage of the clearance and put it in the next "IJRLB" episode so you can have a look. Thanks for the nice words.
+Spindatt thank you so much! will pick up 28s this week! much appreciated! more power !
Conti gp 5000 tl 32 mmm ... ready for everything...
I rode the Dirty Kanza 205 miles , Red River Riot 145 miles, and Dirty Fury Stage Rush 109 miles. All on the same tire set up. All with no punctures. But I used 35mm tires and I'm far from a pro. Just got tired of changing flats...and the whole setup (both tires) costs less than $50. ua-cam.com/video/cgOSiecPafw/v-deo.html
excellent advice here
Thanks (again)! I'm new to gravel riding with an all road (cross?) bike, but I decided to just go nuts and do it anyway. I'm 6'1 and weigh 282 lbs (187cm 128kg) on a set of 28" tires - I loved it! Did it again, loved it! There is a video on my channel about it: ua-cam.com/video/lpH7Td6FBFk/v-deo.html
I've ordered a pair of 32" continental grand prix 4 season for comfort and because we don't really have much of a summer in Sweden....
Any update on best gravel tires?
I have a million opinions about the best ones haha but I still believe Pasela’s are an amazing tire choice. I love them.
However, I’m extremely into Nano’s. Now that they are gum wall: yes.