Impact of narrow rims on ride quality and resistance of GravelKing SK tires
I finally found a shop with the GravelKing SK 26x2.1 in stock and put them on my bike, then noticed they seem very wide compared to my rims. Turns out I have 19mm rims, which per the ETRTO charts I’ve found are just barely within the recommended range for 2.1” (53mm) tires. (Other setup notes: the rims are not tubeless-compatible; still figuring out tire pressure, but me+bike is only around 150lbs.)
So my question is…what will be the practical impact of this (ride quality, resistance, handling, etc), specifically for the GravelKing SK and my setup? I’ve read some general articles, but it sounds like the results depend somewhat on the tire sidewall construction, as well as tubes/tubeless and tire pressure.
Also, any thoughts on an “ideal” rim width for 2.1” (53mm) ish tires for gravel riding? I’m considering getting a new set of wheels so I can run tubeless (also the current set is heavier than I’d like).
Posted Oct 2, 2022, 7:57 AM UTC