Size of tire for commuting -Schwabe Marathon plus 700x28 vs 700x32
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Size of tire for commuting -Schwabe Marathon plus 700x28 vs 700x32
Hi folks, first post!
I am debating between the two tires mentioned in the title. I am wondering if there is a lot of difference between the two. I will be mostly on hard surface such as roads with a round trip of no more than 25 miles.
My inside rims are 19mm and from what I understand it the rims will hold both tires fine.
Any suggestions?
I am debating between the two tires mentioned in the title. I am wondering if there is a lot of difference between the two. I will be mostly on hard surface such as roads with a round trip of no more than 25 miles.
My inside rims are 19mm and from what I understand it the rims will hold both tires fine.
Any suggestions?
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I use 32s and they are comfortable carry weight well. I ride them about 90 psi +/- 5; and anywhere between 200-250 in weight (without bike).
I usually use roads, but do not hesitate to go on crushed gravel or dirt. Not sand though.
I usually use roads, but do not hesitate to go on crushed gravel or dirt. Not sand though.
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I weigh around 210. not sure how much all the rest of gear will add to it. I'm thinking they would be close in performance and from what I hear that sounds right. So far I am leaning towards the 32s. I can always loose some weight lol!
#6
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I'd go with the wider tires. I'm running 35's on my CX commuter and have no complaints... Somehow it feels safer going over gravel, potholes etc. and speedwise there is absolutely no difference.
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My commuter has 700x28's. I set the pressure around 90/100 PSI (fore/aft). They are pretty comfortable - don't make me want bigger-size tyres.
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The value of your life doesn't change based on the way you travel. - Dawn Schellenberg (SDOT)
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32s and 28s look VERY similar when mounted on the wheel. A 35C will also fit. I've had a 35 road tire in silty sand in south Georgia. It takes some concentration, but it can be done.
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Having previously run the Marathon Plus 32c on my commuter on similar hard surfaces to what you will be doing I would personally go for the Durano in a 28c version with Raceguard & folding bead. They will be a lot lighter and a lot quicker than the Marathon Plus. I do however run a tyre liner with my Durano's for the added assurance and they are still quicker than the Marathon Plus. Also consider the Conti 4 seasons in the 28c version.
Last edited by Fishwhisperer; 05-24-14 at 12:57 AM. Reason: update
#10
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Or a 420...
I have a plus on back and a standard marathon on front, both 38's. I like the marathon a lot better then the plus.
I have a plus on back and a standard marathon on front, both 38's. I like the marathon a lot better then the plus.
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Having previously run the Marathon Plus 32c on my commuter on similar hard surfaces to what you will be doing I would personally go for the Durano in a 28c version with Raceguard & folding bead. They will be a lot lighter and a lot quicker than the Marathon Plus. I do however run a tyre liner with my Durano's for the added assurance and they are still quicker than the Marathon Plus. Also consider the Conti 4 seasons in the 28c version.
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I don't run Marathons but I prefer 32's only if there's occasional loose stuff like gravel or sand, or a surface that's rough enough that I want reduced pressure. I've found that pinch flats are a LOT less likely with a 32 than with a 28 with lower pressure.
Other than that I strongly prefer a 28 for day to day riding.
Other than that I strongly prefer a 28 for day to day riding.
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Thanks for everyone's responses. It has been most helpful. One of my main concerns are thorns. I have a green way near my house and certain times of year the thorns are really bad. Bad like a flat every couple of days seems. This is one of the reasons I was thinking of the marathon plus. I will check out the others mentioned.
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I actually just ordered a pair of Conti 4 seasons 28C to replace the Durano's as they are shot. Glad you like them and am hoping they will be a bit quicker than the Durano's.
#16
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32 is better.
You won't need to top up your tire pressures so often.
28 runs higher pressure and loses more, not to mention a bit harsher ride.
You won't need to top up your tire pressures so often.
28 runs higher pressure and loses more, not to mention a bit harsher ride.
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Having used both the Marathon Plus and 4 Seasons, I can say that the 4 Seasons is a far better tire in every respect except to longevity. The 4 Seasons has decent life, but the Marathon Plus just seems to never wear out.
#18
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Honestly, you probably can't go wrong with either. I have 28s and 32s on different bikes and I don't notice a huge difference but guys over 200lbs may notice more of an advantage with the wider tire. Just curious, size and pressures are you running now?
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If your roads or surfaces are ideal, always go with the more narrow tire. If your roads or surfaces have more challenges, always go with the wider tire.
For smooth paved roads without thorns, I'd go with the 28's...
For smooth paved roads with thorns, I'd go with the 32's!
PS.
I'd also get some flat resistant tires!
For smooth paved roads without thorns, I'd go with the 28's...
For smooth paved roads with thorns, I'd go with the 32's!
PS.
I'd also get some flat resistant tires!
Last edited by WestPablo; 05-25-14 at 11:06 PM.
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