socalrider

Posted this on the Tandem forum - but a lot more eyes here on road cycling. Looking to change the tires from 700x25 to 700 x 28
The combined weight for Tandem is at 350lbs.

I was thinking the Hardshell might be the way to go. My wheels support anything from 700 x 25 up to 38 width.

Any input on what people's experience with these tires are.

Thanks.

Jagamov

I have Gator Hardshells on my Sirrus X and I like them just fine. To put it in perspective, I have GP5000's on my Allez. I can't really tell any difference in how they roll. They both roll very well. I will say that at similar pressures, the GP5000's are more supple and compliant, but I do not find the Hardshells ride to be too harsh or uncomfortable. Others may feel differently.

They will be great if you're looking for a long lasting tire with excellent flat protection. But if you want a supple ride, you might be disappointed.

caloso

They are great commuting/training tires. Protect against flats and last many miles.

winston63 

I think they'd work well for your application. I don't currently run Hardshells, but I did use them for a while on my Diverge when I was using that for some lightweight touring and I really appreciated their flat protection. They don't roll as nicely as some tires but they aren't too bad in my opinion. Now they aren't very supple if that matters, but really that's the trade-off for the flat protection.

Symox

I've never tried the hardshells but I swear by 700x28 Gatorskins for training/regular riding. I run them at lowish pressures (60-80psi) but I don't do touring or tandem. They last forever.

My buddy has Schwalbe Marathons and likes them as well.

Another option is to get a light tire that rides well and insert tire liners. Those things are heavy but work.

If I were you and didn't need to put fenders, I would go with at least a 28 probably the 32 width

socalrider

definitely going with 28's and then possibly 32's down the line.. The 700 x 25's just feel way too narrow for a 350 lb tandem crew