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I have a set of Surly Extraterrestrial 26x2.5" tires that won't fit on any bike I build! A few years ago I built up a Motobecane 700HT with an Instigator fork but I only had about a millimeter of tire clearance in the back. Last month I refurbished a Trek 3700, and the tires wouldn't clear the frame. Anyone have recommendations for a hardtail frame that will fit 26x2.5" tires? Hopefully something non-suspension corrected, with a 1 1/8" headtube, that takes rim brakes?

Kapusta

A good place to start would be Surly themselves. Some of the Trolls, Instigators, or Lowsides might be what you are looking for.

You can search their “legacy” page to see previous models.

wolfchild

Your best option would be an older Surly 1 x 1 or Surly Troll, these bikes can take 26 x 2.8 tires....The only problem is that majority of tire manufacturers stopped making 26 inch tires in those sizes. I think Maxxis is the only one that still makes 26 x 2.5 tires.

TheMountBike

If you want to make an older frame cycle with good tire clearance, there are a few things you can do. First, you can invest in a new frame that has more clearance for bigger tires. Alternatively, you can modify your existing frame to give it more room for larger tires.

This involves cutting and welding the frame to create more space. Finally, you can also use adapters that attach to your frame and allow for bigger tires. Whichever route you choose, make sure to consult with a professional before making any major changes to your bike.

• Find an older frame that you like the look of and that is in good condition
• Check the clearance on the frame to make sure it will fit tires that are larger than 700c
• If the frame does not have enough clearance, you can try to file down the dropouts or use spacers on the axle to create more room
• Once you have confirmed that your chosen frame will work with larger tires, find some good quality tires that fit your needs and install them onto the wheelset
• You may need to adjust the brakes if they are not compatible with the new tire size
• Test ride your bike to make sure everything is working properly before heading out on a longer ride!

It's important to have enough clearance between your tires and frames so that your tires don't rub when you're riding. If your tires are rubbing, it can cause them to wear down prematurely and may even lead to a flat tire. So how much clearance do you need?

It depends on the size of your tires. For standard road bike tires, you should have at least 3/8" of clearance between the tire and the frame. For mountain bike tires, which are typically wider, you'll need at least 1/2" of clearance. Keep in mind that if you're running fenders (which is a good idea, especially in wet weather), you'll need additional clearance to accommodate them.

Fenders typically add about an inch to the width of your wheels, so factor that into your calculations. If you're unsure whether you have enough clearance, take your bike for a spin and pay attention to whether or not your tires are rubbing against the frame. If they are, it's time to make some adjustments so that they don't rub anymore.
When you are choosing a bike, it is important to make sure that you have the proper clearance over the frame. The ideal clearance is about two inches. This will allow you to be able to ride comfortably and not have to worry about the bike rubbing against your leg.

If you have less than two inches of clearance, it is possible that the bike could rub against your leg and cause discomfort.If you're like many cyclists, you probably have an old road bike collecting dust in your garage. But what if you want to convert it to a gravel bike? Is that even possible?

The answer is yes, but it's not as simple as just swapping out the tires. To turn your road bike into a gravel bike, you'll need to make some other changes, too. Here's what you'll need to do:

When it comes to choosing a bike frame, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best frame size for you will depend on your height, riding style, and the type of bike you are looking for. If you are taller, or if you prefer a more aggressive riding position, you may want to go with a larger frame.

A larger frame will also be better for downhill biking and another high-speed riding. On the other hand, if you are shorter or prefer a more relaxed riding position, a smaller frame may be the better choice. A smaller frame is also generally lighter weight, making it easier to maneuver on tight trails.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which bike frame size is right for you is to test-ride different bikes and see how they feel. Pay attention to your body position and comfort level when riding each bike, and make your decision based on that.
If you're a serious cyclist, then you know that having the right tire clearance on your bike is crucial. Not only does it make your ride more comfortable, but it can also help you go faster and improve your overall performance. There are a few things to consider when choosing the right tire clearance for your bike.

First, you need to think about the type of riding you'll be doing. If you're mostly going to be riding on paved roads, then you won't need as much clearance as someone who plans to do a lot of off-road riding. Next, you need to consider the width of your tires.

The wider the tire, the more clearance you'll need. Finally, keep in mind that if you're planning to ride in wet conditions, you'll need even more clearance to prevent mud and debris from building up on your tires and slowing you down. When it comes to finding the perfect tire clearance for your bike, there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. But with a little trial and error, you should be able to find a setup that works well for you and helps you get the most out of your rides.