Hey folks,
Screwing around in the snow these last few days and I made a point to lower the pressure on my tires per the usual advice pro traction and handling.
I am at least 275lbs and 6'1"ish.I am running a Conti Mountain King up front and a brand new Kenda Klaw XT on the rear of my hardtail Specialized 29er.
First, I dropped the pressure down to just over 20psi for both and really hated it. Front was no problem, but I could feel the rear wiggling around fiercely while pedaling or doing even minor maneuvering. It made me uncomfortable, especially in light of how easily the tire popped on to the rim when I was installing it.
Second, I increased the pressure in both tires to just over 30 psi. It was definitely better feeling. I liked the added "suspension" of the squooshy rear tire, but I could still feel it squirming on the hard pack, ice or pavement. Also, that "bounce" really seems to soak up my pedal energy. It's like driving a sponge.
Finally, today, I pumped the rear up to 60psi and left the front around 50. The bike seems pounds lighter and fairly flies down the trail. It is more muddy now than snowy, but I am starting to think that all that advice about low pressure tires is for skinny spinners and DH'ers.
Just thoughts. Add yours if you are so inspired.
Cheers,
Drum