For background I have a 2023 Canyon Ultimate.
So I just installed 35 GravelKing Slicks on my ultimate with plans of road riding (which I’ve done all season) but also rails to trails sections with hard packed gravel. I’m coming from the GP5000 28s.
I’ve seen a lot of chatter about this but never definitive answers. To me if I’m not riding in the mud this should give ample clearance but maybe I’m missing something? Thoughts from this group on how clearance looks?
Also – are 35s a waste? 28s rolled nice and I liked them but have read that going to 35 slicks I won’t lose a ton of speed but add a lot of comfort to both the road and hard packed gravel.
Lastly, I’m not up-to-date on any tech stuff really, are 35s on the stock rims a problem?
Am I missing any other pitfalls before I go take it for the maiden voyage?
by Ad-Nauseam91
11 Comments
>are 35s a waste?
Nah man low to mid 30s is where it’s at for road. Really nice rolling resistance and ride quality due to the lower pressures. Maybe check to make sure the little nubs on the tire don’t scratch up your frame, but other than that enjoy the faster ride!
Looks like 35s will be fine on those rims. I’d personally also go with something that size for mixed road/gravel riding. Clearance also looks fine if you avoid mud. If you want to be extra cautious you could put some helicopter tape on the inside of your chainstays.
Right move. 35s are plush. Dry hardpack all the way, you will experience a whole new level of fun on the bike.
Tires sit great on your rims, don’t worry about that.
It’s too close. I wouldn’t go any bigger than 32
You look good in the front, definitely plenty of clearance but your rear tire looks a bit too tight especially at the front derailleur I personally wouldn’t risk that. Maybe go for 32 or 33 in the back?
I was rolling on 28mm GP5000s for the last couple of years before I got my new road bike with 35mm tires. Faster and more comfortable. You won’t be going back.
I have 35 knobs on my Domane. I ride a really good mix of road and gravel (60/40 respectively) and no complaints. Domane frame gives a little more clearance than your 35s do but your clearance looks just fine.
I look for 1/4″ clearance all around the tires on a bike I take off-road.
The ETERO chart has recommended rim/tire width combinations but people exceed it pretty regularly. I’d be more conservative on asphalt though.
My roadie wheel swap setup has 32s, go tubeless drop a little pressure and enjoy the plushness.
At least apply helicopter tape if you’re going to ride that like that…
Yeah, size down one in the rear. Front looks fine.