Cyclocross - what size tyres can I fit on ordinary 700c?

rodgers73 · December 2012

I've just got a Boardman Hybrid Comp with the intention of doing cyclocross. There's plenty of clearance for wider tyres but I'm not sure of two things -

1. What sort of width tyre can fit on standard 700c road tyres?

2. What size is an ideal all round size tyre for a full season of cyclocross? I don't want to have to buy several sets to cover changing conditions.

Thanks

cougie · December 2012

1. http://www.schwalbetires.com/tech_info/ ... nsions#rim

I think your rims are 17mm so thats 25mm to 50mm - frame permitting.

2. Dunno sorry.

bendertherobot · December 2012

Why did you buy a hybrid for cyclocross?

rodgers73 · December 2012

Because I cant afford a proper cross bike and I can use this for other sorts of riding too.

Any advice re the tyres and wheels?

bendertherobot · December 2012

This would be better for riding generally

http://www.merlincycles.com/bike-shop/b ... -bike.html

Sheldon reckons that a 17mm inner width is good for 25c to 37c.

http://sheldonbrown.com/tire-sizing.html

As to what tyres, that's a tricky one, there's plenty to speak of:

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/cyclocross-tyres/

If muddy, some better than others. But, if you're going to use the bike for multiple purposes something like the Sammy Slick might be good (i.e. if you're on road more than off it) but if you want serious off road then something more mud orientated.

There's probably not one "all round" tyre for cross and (say) commuting.

Monty Dog · December 2012

A commuting or hybrid tyre is made for durability and puncture resistance whereas a CX tyre often has no puncture protection and has a very flexible carcass - there's few tyres that do both well. I'd suggest something like a Schwalbe Smart Sam if you can only afford one tyre, but if it gets really muddy you might find it wanting. I wouldn't worry about tyre width, it only really applies to elite-level races, so go for a 35mm or 38mm width.

Cyclocross - what size tyres can I fit on ordinary 700c?

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