Crusher Tires. Time to Panic?

The Crusher is a month away. I’m excited. I’ve written extensively about the race, so it’s no secret that I’m a big fan of the event. One of the reasons that the Crusher demands my attention is the wide array of possible equipment combinations that are viable for race day. But one question underlies everything else: which tire? Whether you end up on a mountain bike, ‘cross bike, or something in-between, the tires you choose will be a significant factor on race day.

I really don’t know which tire is best for the Crusher. I recommend riding the tire you’ve already picked out. Don’t second guess your choice. Mount them up, and pedal! But if you are still tryiing to decide on which rubber to use, keep reading. Otherwise, you may just want to spend some time watching the progress of the Tour Divide riders.

A few choices:

Bontrager XR-1 Team 
29 x 1.9
120 TPI
435g
MSRP: $65

Kenda Happy Medium
29 x 2.1
120 TPI
670g
MSRP: $45

CX Version
700 x 32/35/40
120 TPI
386g (35)

Kenda Small Block Eight
29 x 1.9
120 TPI
580g
MSRP: $38

CX Version
700 x 32/35
120 TPI
350g (35)
 

NoTubes Raven
29 x 2.0
120 TPI
500g
MSRP: $72

CX Version
700 x 35
120 TPI
360g
MSRP: $61

Clement X’plor MSO
700 x 40
60/120 TPI
485g
MSRP: $55/80
 

Well, that’s a start. There are others. I am going to use (unless I don’t) the NoTubes Raven ‘cross. I like the tires, I’ve used them in the past, and I have had good luck on them. The only thing that might prevent me from using them is not having them at all. I’m impatiently waiting their arrival. My second choice? I don’t have one. But the Clement MSO has been highly reviewed, as has the Small Block Eight.

Whether you’ve picked out a tire or not, don’t panic. Any tire will do, so long as the legs are ready. Which is why I need to worry less about my tires, and more about my legs. Or, in the words of Mark, “I’m a lot less worried about the tires than the motor. Seems to be running a little rough, fuel mix probably too rich.”

And unlike tire choices, getting the motor running smoothly is a simple process. Simple. But painful.