Dear MXA,
Are there any advantages running a 18-inch wheel over a 19-inch wheel?
There are pros and cons to each side.
The 19-inch tire was developed for Supercross. It hooks up better on hard-packed dirt, goes across the whoops with less bounce and provides a more accurate feel under side loads (like in corners). On the downside, it delivers a much harsher ride, is more prone to pinch flatting and isn't as absorbent on rough ground.
The 18-inch tire absorb landings and bumps better (thanks to its larger volume), puts a wider footprint on the ground and is less likely to pinch flat. On the downside, it bounces in the whoops and wallows under hard side loads.
The weight difference between the two is negligible when you factor in the rims and spokes, but there is a technology gap (in that most of the new tires are designed as a 19-incher and then handed-down to the 18-incher).
|
|