New rider about 30% of my riding is pavement and 70% like this (Katy Trail rail trail) would I be better served by slicks? I don’t ride in the rain. Looking at Michelin Pro 5 700C x 35
by DillyJamba
New rider about 30% of my riding is pavement and 70% like this (Katy Trail rail trail) would I be better served by slicks? I don’t ride in the rain. Looking at Michelin Pro 5 700C x 35
by DillyJamba
10 Comments
Probably be fine with 35s. I ride similar crushed limestone and even some gravel roads with 32mm slicks. They run much faster than my 45mm pirelli gravel h. Just might want to stay a little more upright around tighter corners.
I’m from KC and used to ride the Katy trail from time to time. 32mm semi slick tubeless and you’re golden.
My favorite rail trail tires are Conti Terra Speed 35s.
Nearly road bike tire fast with enough grip in the corners they don’t easily slide out. And puncture-resistant enough so sharper rocks don’t tear them up.
What are the noticeable differences between 35mm and 32mm in terms of speed and grip.
Also rolling resistance and power usage assuming that tire thread’s the same.
40-45mm semi slicks. You don’t need much tread assuming the roads are dry.
28-32mm road tires.
These are ridiculously expensive but I ran the 32 version (not tubeless compatible) with tubes for years on gravel roads and never had an issue. Very light. Very fast. Corner well. [https://www.renehersecycles.com/shop/components/tires/700c/700cx35-bon-jon-pass/](https://www.renehersecycles.com/shop/components/tires/700c/700cx35-bon-jon-pass/) This is the 35mm tubeless compatible.
No need to overthink it. If you want the mix get a tire with a slick center and knobs on the side (gravelking sk, wtb byways, terravail washburn, etc). Slicks would work fine, too, but some knobs won’t hurt ya.
Yep. 34mm corsa control pros. Great tire for fast gravel. Lovely on the road. Can handle the little pebbles and dirt fine enough.
I commute on the Katy daily on schwalbe marathons. They’re 40mm, which is way overkill. If you ride all weather I’d probably go for something with decent traction but I think you can get away with a narrowish tire.