Stupide Newbie Tyre Question

[aerobrain]

Hi

Just looking at buying some tyres and I can see you have wire beaded and folding. Are the folding ones easier to fit due to not having the rigid wire?

Looking at Conti GP 4000s for £30 a tyre, anyone got any comments for/against that choice?! For info my bike is a Specialized Allez Elite and I'm currently mainly focused on distance. Was planning on going for the 700x25, mainly because that's the size of the stock tyres and I won't have to change my computer settings but also because it sounds like they give the best compromise of comfort versus resistance?!

Cheers

Lee

 

[aerobrain]

Oh and do you normally change inner tubes at the same time as tyres or leave them be if they're still OK?

 

[HLaB]

First time the folding tyre as its not taken shape may be more complicated but down the line it'll be easier. The main advantage of foldable tyres is their weight and its generally higher end tyres so roll and grip better. Fashion tends to dictate 23mm tyres but you are 100% right 25mm is the best compromise of comfort and performance IMO. If you want to be 100% accurate you may need to recalibrate your computer anyway but thats being a bit anal IMO

 

[HLaB]

Oh and do you normally change inner tubes at the same time as tyres or leave them be if they're still OK?

You can use the old tubes no problem just have other on hand if you pinch them by mistake when you fit the new tyres.

 

[FreeFlow Bikes]

I use the Conti Grand Prix 4000S after a pal who races recommended them to me. Great tyre, never had a problem with them. Lightweight yet robust.

You only need to change the tube if damaged, no need to swap it because you are putting new tyres on.

 

[youngoldbloke]

GP4000S - highly regarded. Folding only - assume for weight saving. IME no harder or easier to fit than wire bead. I find folding tyres feel more responsive - probably because they are generally lighter.