Just wondering what others’ experience has been with these tires, particularly in fitting. Replacing a set of Panaracer, 700x32c and it seems improbable to get the Marathons on. I can get one side seated and as soon as the other is started, the first slips back off. Tried lifting the valve out of the way as much as possible. Debating returning and trying out a different tire.
by magicianist
7 Comments
They are notoriously difficult to fit. If in doubt, try a local bike shop, or consider buying a tyre installing tool like a tyre glider
I had the hardest 40 minutes of my life trying to fit these hahah
I use these on my winter commuter – and they are great tyres.
Until recently my claim was that in 8 years I’ve only ever taken them off to replace them – but recently I had my first p*ncture of one when a shard of glass worked its way in.
I’ve never found them tough to get on but some combinations can be tight. Just make sure to get the tyre right into the centre of the rim and then finish at the valve.
They’re tough though so even if it’s tricky it’s probably worth it to use them.
I use these on my winter commuter – and they are great tyres.
Until recently my claim was that in 8 years I’ve only ever taken them off to replace them – but recently I had my first p*ncture of one when a shard of glass worked its way in.
I’ve never found them tough to get on but some combinations can be tight. Just make sure to get the tyre right into the centre of the rim and then finish at the valve.
They’re tough though so even if it’s tricky it’s probably worth it to use them.
Sometimes it helps to take the bring the tire inside to warm up and soften before mounting. Also a drop of Fairy might help to slip it on.
When seating the last part of the bead, other beads should be in the middle of the rim width (the bottom of the valley). I use large clamps to keep the tire squished. Say I’m working at 12 o’clock position, I put clamps at 6,4,8 to keep both side beads in the centre.
Marathon Plus is hard and sprang wide, always trying to sit at the widest part of the rim.
On top of that, you’re seating 700x32c to 13mm rim, so it’s extra difficult to keep beads in the middle.
I recently fitted a set of marathons green guards, they’re the slightly sportier version of the marathon plus (I think).
I was very close to just handing my bike over to my lbs and having them do the tyre change. Crikey, if that change wasn’t close to breaking me.