Cycling UK Forum

I want to fit a Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyre to the rear wheel of my hybrid. I've currently got a Specialized Armadillos 700 x 28s on there, but clearance with the mudguard is very tight. I'm concerned that the Marathon Plus may be a shade larger which would cause problems.

Could I fit 700 x 25s onto the wheel instead? The wheel is a Mavic Open Sport. The label's worn so I can't see any sizing info.

Thanks,

Jedzi

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The bit of information that Gaz missed out is that Open Sports are a "15mm" rim which on that table means they are best with 23, 25, 28 and 32 mm tyres.

Personally I have quite happily taken them to 35mm as well.

Thanks - that's really useful.

Also - I've used 28s for years, am I right in thinking that 25s will be a notch faster, but a slightly less comfortable or stable ride? 95% of my cycling is commuting to work, across London, so I'm more worried about practicality and safety than an extra 2% of speed.

One more question: my front tyre is a 28, are there any disadvantages to having a 28 on the front & a 25 on the rear?

M

I for one cant tell the difference. I do start to have a problem with pinch punctures when I go down to 25mm, these are avoided by keeping tyre pressures high but I dont always manage that.

I ride with 25 front 28 rear and cant say it makes much difference. I prefer a fatter tyre on the rear as that is where the weight is. However many others prefer a fatter tyre on the front as that gives them better braking ability where they need it. In London that might be a good way of thinking.

The difference is not major, what to use does depend on your weight as well as road quality.

You are certainly not doing anything wild or exceptional. (unless you weigh 20 stone ).

I think, with a lot of these heavy-gauge P/R tyres, you need a track pump to get up to a working pressure (I normally use 110psi). With a portable pump I just can't manage it anymore! I can get enough air in to get me home, but that's about all. Is it my arms weakening with age?

Personally I've been a bit disappointed with the road (700x23mm) equivalent of M+, the Durano: that one didn't wear very well for me at all, although the road holding is good even in winter. Armadillos are more p****ure resistant but have poorer grip in the wet. I'm now trying Conti Gatorskins, so far they've held up well. Not sure which of those I'd really settle for.