• Description

Hi Guys,

 I commute 20km each way to work on a Trek MTB 4800. Good strong bike, served me well for 7 years. 

I currently use 1.5 tyres and am interested how skinny I can go? I saw your slickasaurus 1.1’s which look interesting.  

What issues should I consider before going really skinny, and how much benefit will I get? 

Scott

Hi Scott,
    Pressure is more important than width for lowering rolling resistance. That and tread pattern (of lack of it) and tyre construction (weight and casing flexibility). The 1.1 tyres might give a slightly lower rolling resistance than say a 1.5, and also give slightly better acceleration through lighter weight. But you don't want to put them on wide rims, which would expose the sidewalls to damage from whatever you happen to run over. A too-narrow tyre on a wide rim will mean the delicate tyre sidewalls are not hidden away behind the tough tread section.
    A narrower tyre will also lower your gearing marginally.
Cheers,
Mark.