noob commuter, some questions

Hi, I've just started commuting to work on a mountain bike a couple of weeks ago and am really enjoying it so far.
I've been researching changing the set up a bit as it never goes off road much at all. I have 26x2.1 knobbly tyres on at the moment but think I would like to get a set of road types on there, what's the thinnest I could go (my rims aren't as chunk as they could be) does it all depend on what rims I have? Also, what are peoples thoughts on spd's for a 5 mile each way commute, is it overkill?
I've been researching changing the set up a bit as it never goes off road much at all. I have 26x2.1 knobbly tyres on at the moment but think I would like to get a set of road types on there, what's the thinnest I could go (my rims aren't as chunk as they could be) does it all depend on what rims I have? Also, what are peoples thoughts on spd's for a 5 mile each way commute, is it overkill?
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http://sheldonbrown.com/tire-sizing.html
The biggest advantage will come from switching to slicks, so don't agnonise too much over the size.
SPDs are personal preference. I used to use them on a 5 mile commute, because I was used to them on other bikes.
As for SPD's they are more efficient in the most part to pedals etc. Main thing is getting used to them and if you're planning to use them on trails etc then why not!!
Tyres, width will as already said depend on your rim size. Swalbe mararthons seem most popular
I used to use 1.5`s on my subway 1 and i could really fly .
Same here! On an MTB, doing the commute on slicks. I think my commute is around 6 1/2 miles if I take the short route. Also use SPDs (Shimano PD-M520), makes such a difference. You can get more power down on the pedals and you don't have to worry about your foot slipping off and the pedal ramming you in the back of the calf (ouch!).
As for rims my knobbly tyres (which I'm about to put back on due to the mud and leaves) are 2.0, the slicks I use are 1.5. With respect commute time i think I shaved around 2/3 mins off my commute.
A nice set of fat slick or semi slick tyres is my recomendation.
If it doesn't move and should, use the WD40.
If it shouldn't move and does, use the tape.
si
Road = 1980 Raleigh Record Sprint
MTB = 2000 Scott Vail
Road = 2002 Peugeot c300 comp road race bike
Road = 2012 Bianchi Impulso
Car = Saab 93, MGTF
(They are a bit noisy at the mo, but I guess they will settle down when the cleats and pedal get to know each other.)
I use 26x1.75 Schwalbe Marathon Pluses (got 'em from Spa Cycles) and some dhb M1 MTB Shoes (Wiggle)
Very pleased with these recent changes!
I recently switched to Conti TopContact Winter tyres, a little smaller than the Big Apples but big enough to retain a comfortable but quick ride.
If your MTB runs discs brakes, you can also pick up a set of 700c disc wheels and run narrower 700c tyres. I did this (as an experiement) and ran 700c wheels fitted with Specialized Infinity 700x32c tyres ... actually worked very well, here's what it looked like:
MTB nobbly front and Big Apple rear:
700c
Conti:
- Jon
+1. I've just put a set of of Schwalbe landcruisers on my station hack bike which are dirt cheap but roll great on tarmac plus can also handle light offroad / trail / tow path. A great allrounder. come in 26x1.75 and 1.95 amongst other sizes. very clever tread pattern which gives a small continuous solid contact point for on road but also excellent grip whhere you need it.
Bianchi Via Nirone 7 Ultegra
Brompton S Type
Carrera Vengeance Ultimate Ltd
Gary Fisher Aquila '98
Front half of a Viking Saratoga Tandem
Out of interest, what wheels did you get?
"As I said last time, it won't happen again."
http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/WPM1250525/ ... r_wheelset
No issues so far, although they are now on my hybrid project rather than the MTB.
- Jon