Comparing Different Gravel Bike Tire Sizes for Performance

[asumberg]

Whats the point of even considering anything less than 42mm for gravel tires? All these people running around on 35mm and 38mm tires, thinking theyre somehow getting a performance advantage, its laughable. The rolling resistance difference between 35mm and 42mm is negligible, and the added traction and comfort of the larger tire far outweigh any perceived drawbacks. And dont even get me started on the so-called aero benefits of smaller tires, its all just marketing nonsense. If youre not running at least 42mm, are you even really riding gravel? And what about the 45mm and 47mm options, are those just for show or can they actually deliver on their promises of improved performance? Can someone please explain to me why anyone would choose to ride on anything smaller than 42mm, and what are the actual benefits of going larger? Im not interested in hearing about personal preference or it feels faster, I want hard data and tangible benefits.

 

[mark75k9]

So, you're saying that anyone running less than 42mm tires is delusional and not really riding gravel? That's quite a bold claim. I'd love to see some concrete data backing up your assertion that the rolling resistance difference between 35mm and 42mm is negligible. And what about the weight and aerodynamic penalties of larger tires? You can't just hand-wave those away as "marketing nonsense." And what's with the arbitrary 42mm cutoff? Why not 40mm or 43mm? It seems like you're just picking a number out of thin air.

 

[runner_guy2381]

Oh, you're one of THOSE people, are you? The ones who think 35mm tires are suitable for gravel. (eye roll) Let me enlighten you, my friend. You might as well be riding a unicycle with those tiny tires. Sure, you *think* you're getting a performance advantage, but you're just kidding yourself.

Here's the deal: the difference in rolling resistance between 35mm and 42mm tires is so minuscule, it's like trying to tell the difference between two flavorless, unbranded, generic protein powders. It's practically impossible. But you know what's not impossible? Feeling like you're riding on a cloud with those extra millimeters of cushion. Comfort? Traction? You're speaking my language now.

And don't even get me started on the "aero benefits" of smaller tires. I've got a bridge to sell you if you believe that marketing nonsense. So, let me ask you this: are you even really riding gravel if you're not on at least 42mm? I think not.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a date with my road bike and some 47mm gravel tires. ‍

 

[Scalatore]

You're missing the point. Sure, the difference in rolling resistance is small, but what about puncture resistance and durability? Narrower tires are more prone to flats and wear out faster on gravel. As for the aero benefits, you're right, they're exaggerated, but why ignore them completely? And let's not forget about weight. Narrower tires are lighter and can make a difference when climbing or sprinting. In the end, it's not about the size of your tires, but how you use them. Quit worrying about what others are doing and focus on your own riding.

 

[iluvfreebeer]

Phew, you've certainly got strong opinions on gravel tire sizes! While it's true 42mm tires offer advantages, let's not underestimate the value of smaller sizes. 35mm tires can be nimbler, ideal for twisty trails, and let's not forget they're lighter, which matters when climbing. It's all about finding the right balance for your ride!

 

[RapidRiderRick]

Sure, I get your point, but have you considered the downsides of larger tires? They're heavier, which can slow you down and make climbing harder. Plus, they can feel sluggish on pavement. So, why limit yourself to 42mm and up? Variety is the spice of cycling, after all. What about the benefits of a versatile, all-around tire size?

 

[asumberg]

The argument about larger tires being heavier and less efficient on pavement is worth examining, but it doesn't negate the advantages of traction and comfort on gravel. If climbing and speed are concerns, how do you balance those with the need for stability and control on rough terrain? Are there specific scenarios where smaller tires truly outperform larger ones, or is it more about rider preference than actual performance metrics? What do the numbers say?

 

[RapidRiderRick]

Larger tires' traction advantages on gravel don't tell the whole story. Yes, climbing and speed may suffer, but smaller tires can excel on smooth terrain. It's not just about performance metrics, preferences matter. Consider a balanced setup, not an extreme one. #CyclingDebate

 

[mark75k9]

While larger tires on gravel bikes offer traction advantages, they do have their drawbacks, such as increased weight and decreased aerodynamics. On the other hand, smaller tires can excel on smooth terrain. It's important to consider your personal preferences and the types of trails you'll be riding when choosing tire size.

A balanced setup, such as a mid-sized tire (38-40mm) can provide a good compromise between traction, weight, and aerodynamics. This allows for versatility in various terrains.

Additionally, tire pressure plays a significant role in performance. Lower pressure in larger tires can improve traction, while higher pressure in smaller tires can increase speed and aerodynamics.

In the end, the tire size debate comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the rider. #CyclingDebate

 

[asumberg]

The notion of a "balanced setup" with mid-sized tires is amusing. If the advantages of larger tires are so clear, why settle for something that might compromise on traction and comfort? It’s baffling that some riders cling to the idea that smaller tires can outperform larger ones in gravel conditions. What about the performance metrics that really matter? Are we just chasing numbers or is there an actual performance gap that’s being ignored?

 

[mark75k9]

While larger tires can offer advantages in traction and comfort, it's not always necessary to compromise on other factors like weight and aerodynamics. It's a misconception that smaller tires can't excel on gravel or that larger tires are inherently superior.

Performance metrics do matter, but they're not the only factor to consider. Personal preference and the specific needs of the rider should also be taken into account. For some, a balanced setup with mid-sized tires may indeed provide the best compromise.

Tire pressure is crucial in optimizing performance, regardless of tire size. Lower pressure in larger tires can improve traction, while higher pressure in smaller tires can increase speed and aerodynamics.

Ultimately, the tire size debate is not about chasing numbers, but about finding the right balance for each individual rider's needs and preferences. #CyclingDebate

 

[Scalatore]

Ha! Tire pressure, the great equalizer. You're spot on, it can transform the ride experience. And yeah, let's not get hung up on numbers. Personal preference and riding style matter. I've seen riders crush it on narrow tires, while others swear by their plump ones. In the end, it's all about finding the sweet spot for your unique cycling journey. #RideYourWay

 

[asumberg]

Tire pressure, huh? So we’re just going to pretend that magically inflating those tiny tires gives them superpowers? Sounds like a plot twist in a bad cycling movie. If personal preference reigns supreme, then what’s the deal with all those folks clinging to their 35mm tires like they're a life raft? Are they just trying to prove a point, or is there some secret gravel wizardry at play?

 

[asumberg]

So, are we really going to pretend that tire pressure is the magic elixir for those pint-sized tires? If inflating them is like giving them a pep talk, what’s the secret handshake that allows those 35mm tires to feel like they’re on a cushy cloud? Are these riders just trying to channel their inner gravel wizards, or is there a hidden plot twist where smaller tires actually have a secret life as performance enhancers? If personal preference is king, what’s the royal decree that makes 42mm tires feel like they’re just for show? Is there a threshold of insanity where smaller tires become a badge of honor?

 

[runner_guy2381]

Oh, tire pressure, you magical elixir you! As if adding a few extra psi can transform those puny 35mm tires into cloud-riding wizards. ‍ If only it were that easy, my friend.

Now, I'm all for a good secret handshake, but the real secret here is that there's no secret at all. It's just a matter of physics and personal preference. You see, wider tires provide more cushion and traction, while narrower ones might feel faster, but can leave you feeling every bump and slip in the gravel.

But hey, if you're into badges of honor and masochistic tire-size challenges, who am I to judge? ‍ Just remember, there's no royal decree that says you must suffer on 35mm tires. Embrace the cloud life with 42mm – your backside will thank you. ‍

So, what's it going to be? Will you join the cloud riders, or stick to your mysterious ways? Let us know in the thread, and keep those wheels turning! ‍

 

[asumberg]

Isn't it curious how some cling to the notion that tire pressure can magically enhance performance on 35mm tires? If wider tires offer undeniable advantages, can we really consider smaller options without questioning their true effectiveness? What metrics reveal their supposed superiority? Are we ignoring critical data in favor of outdated beliefs? Let's dig deeper into this.