Dulwich Hill Bicycle Club

Just did the Alpine Classic on Continental 4000s 25 mm tyres instead of the usual 23's

Initial impression was that they were more comfortable for the long haul, cornered better and I couldn't pick any increase, if any, in rolling resistance.

The tyres were fitted to HED Ardennes CL's

After this first outing I am a convert

The bike does look a bit like a cyclocross bike though

Anyone else tried them?

Tackled this topic recently in my blog: http://makingcyclingsafer.blogspot.com. ... tyres.html

I've been searching for a size that will fit my bike, in readiness for Vietnam's roads. Currently tried and failed with Schwalbe marathons 28, ultremo zx 28 and durano plus 25. The durano plus were ok until I rode in the wet then the extra muck on the tyre caused some rubbing. Looks like I have to settle for straight 25's with no extra thickness like the plus's have. As to comfort and handling I love the bigger tyres.

25mm has lower rolling resistance than 23mm but poorer aerodynamics

I've been searching for a size that will fit my bike, in readiness for Vietnam's roads. Currently tried and failed with Schwalbe marathons 28, ultremo zx 28 and durano plus 25. The durano plus were ok until I rode in the wet then the extra muck on the tyre caused some rubbing. Looks like I have to settle for straight 25's with no extra thickness like the plus's have. As to comfort and handling I love the bigger tyres.

Philip,
I've seen ads for a new Schwalbe One tyre which promises puncture protection with race tyre performance (I know how that sounds) maybe 25s of those will fit.
I also have tried 25mm tyres and enjoy the smoother ride and don't feel they're slowing me down.
Have a great ride,
Peter

Mike

You might be right about the slight aero loss but in my case the drag of my svelte physique is more of a penalty

Mike

You might be right about the slight aero loss but in my case the drag of my svelte physique is more of a penalty

Performance starts in the kitchen

Half the pro peleton are now rollin on 25s (depending to some degree on the course/roads). Remember most deep carbon rims are near 28mm in the middle so the transition from tyre to rim is more aero than you'd expect. The main disadvantage of 25s is actually weight weight gain.