Navigating the world of bike tyres can be complex, especially when you prefer to stick with inner tubes. The increasing popularity of tubeless tyres might lead you to believe that options for traditional Tyre Tube Bike setups are dwindling, particularly if you’re looking for wider sizes. This exploration delves into the search for suitable tyres for bikes using inner tubes, considering various recommendations and clarifying the often-confusing terminology surrounding tubeless compatibility.
Considering Jack Brown and Schwalbe Marathon Racer Tyres
The search began with recommendations like the Jack Brown tyre and the Schwalbe Marathon Racer. The Jack Brown, a tyre previously unfamiliar, was suggested as a potential option. However, ensuring it fits the bike frame is crucial, especially when considering a 700x33c size compared to the current 700x30c tyres. An older review of the Jack Brown tyre raises a question about its current manufacturer, wondering if Panaracer is still producing it.
Similarly, the Schwalbe Marathon Racer was proposed as a non-tubeless alternative. While familiar with the Schwalbe Marathon Plus, the Racer variant is new to consideration. Again, size compatibility, specifically 700x35c, needs verification to ensure frame clearance. The Marathon Racer, priced reasonably, presents itself as a viable option if size permits.
Understanding Tubeless Standards and Terminology
Discussions around tubeless tyres brought up the topic of standardized tubeless rims and tyres, referencing standards like Mavic UST. The cycling industry’s efforts to standardize tubeless technology were mentioned, highlighting the ongoing process of reaching agreed-upon standards. It’s noted that manufacturer websites increasingly showcase tubeless-only tyres, especially in wider sizes, which can be frustrating for riders preferring tubes but desiring wider tyres.
Comparing tyre information across different manufacturer websites proves challenging due to varied presentation styles and proprietary terminology for technology features. Deciphering whether a tyre is strictly tubeless, tubeless-compatible, or tube-type requires careful scrutiny of each manufacturer’s specifications.
Investigating Specific Tyre Models for Tube Compatibility
The Schwalbe G-One Speed Performance Line Race Guard tyre emerged as a potential tube-type option. This version, specifically the Performance Line Race Guard, is intended for use with tubes and is available in a 700x30c size, aligning with current stock tyres. However, availability seems to be a hurdle, raising questions about whether this tyre is exclusively supplied to bike manufacturers (OEM) for new bike builds, rather than being sold directly to consumers.
The WTB Exposure 30 was also examined. The WTB website’s lack of explicit mention of inner tubes suggests it might be a tubeless-only tyre, making it unsuitable for this tube-focused search.
Panaracer’s website categorizes tyres as “tubed,” “tubeless compatible,” or “tubeless.” Their “tubeless compatible” designation, particularly for the GravelKing in sizes 700x32c and above, implies versatility for both tubeless and tube setups. This categorization positions the GravelKing as a “tubeless ready” tyre, broadening its appeal for riders who might switch between tube and tubeless configurations or prefer the reliability of tubes. Therefore, the Panaracer GravelKing remains a strong contender.
The Vittoria Terreno Zero (700x32c) was another tyre investigated. Labeled “Tubeless Ready (TNT),” Vittoria clarifies that TNT, short for “Tube/No-Tube,” signifies compatibility with both setups. Despite this versatility, the Vittoria Terreno Zero proved difficult to find for purchase, hindering its immediate consideration.
Potential Tube-Type Tyre Options
After this exploration, the options for tyres at least 30mm wide and not exclusively tubeless seem to narrow down to:
- The Jack Brown tyre
- The Schwalbe Marathon Racer
- The Panaracer GravelKing
This investigation highlights the importance of carefully checking tyre specifications and understanding manufacturer terminology when seeking tyres for bikes using inner tubes. The advice and recommendations received have been invaluable in navigating this selection process.
