Wider front tyre on front (MTB)

muttclugg

muttclugg

muttclugg

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I'm due a new set of tyres for my Trek hardtail and as stock, it came with a 2.3 on the front and 2.2 on the back (these are 29" tyres).

I've read about the increase in grip on a wider front when going into corners but is it really worth doing?

I tend to ride to work and at trail centres on hard pack.
 
I find it is worth doing, I run a 2.4 front and a 2.25? Rear.

Although a bigger difference is getting a tread pattern and rubber compound that suits your riding..

Stock tyres are usually cheap versions of the aftermarket equivalent, or just plain cheap rubbish so keeping the same sizes you've got but better rubber will make a difference.
 
It also depends on your rim width. If they are narrow and you go too wide on your tyre it will roll in the corners, or you will have to increase pressure to stop it doing that and that will negate the additional grip you could get out of that tyre.
 
^this is also true.

However if the bike came with a 2.3 on the front as standard I'd assume the rims are reasonably wide. Not plus size wide but I'd guess an internal width of 25mm or more.

Good point though, you don't want to end up with a light bulb shaped profile as it will flop about and feel squirmy on corners.
 
Yep, well worth it. Lower rolling resistance on the rear and grip on the front. Also why you normally run a harder compound rear vs the front.
 
Learning how to put weight over the tire will be more beneficial. Are you losing grip? Do you feel like you need more?

But then I have a collection of tires, so who am I to speak :p
 
Thanks for all the replies. My new Continental Trail Kings turned up yesterday and I put them on yesterday evening. Can't wait to try them out.

In the end I went for a 2.4 at the front and 2.2 on the back. It looked like a set up that a lot of people were running with those tyres.
 
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