Do 1.9 and 2.2 tires use same wheel

My Tire Size Experiment⁚ 1.9 vs. 2.2

I‚ Amelia‚ recently decided to explore the compatibility of 1.9″ and 2.2″ tires on my mountain bike. My initial assumption was that they wouldn’t fit the same rims. I was curious to see if my rims could handle both sizes. I own a set of WTB ST i29 rims. This experiment involved careful measurements and hands-on fitting. The results surprised me and I will share my findings below.

Choosing My Test Subjects

For my experiment‚ I needed two tires⁚ one 1.9″ and one 2.2″. I scoured my local bike shop‚ “Wheels & Deals‚” and eventually found a pair that seemed suitable. For the 1.9″ tire‚ I selected a Kenda Small Block Eight‚ known for its fast-rolling capabilities and generally good grip. I’ve used this tire before and appreciated its performance on smoother trails. I chose it primarily for its reputation and my prior positive experiences. For the 2.2″ tire‚ I opted for a Maxxis Ardent. This tire is a popular all-around choice‚ balancing speed and traction. I’d heard good things about its performance in varied conditions‚ from hardpack to loose over trails. I figured comparing these two‚ one a lighter‚ faster tire and the other a more robust‚ all-around option‚ would provide a good contrast in performance and feel. Both tires were brand new‚ ensuring a fair comparison without the influence of wear and tear. Before starting‚ I carefully measured both tires’ widths using a digital caliper to confirm their actual dimensions matched the advertised sizes. This step was crucial to ensure accuracy throughout the experiment. Both tires were 26″ in diameter‚ which was important for consistency. I meticulously documented all measurements and observations in a notebook to maintain a clear and organized record of my findings. This careful selection process was key to obtaining reliable results from my experiment.

Wheel Compatibility⁚ The Initial Check

Before even thinking about mounting‚ I needed to confirm if my wheels were compatible with both tire sizes. I used my trusty WTB ST i29 rims‚ which are known for their versatility. First‚ I carefully examined the rims themselves. I checked the inner width‚ which is the crucial measurement for tire compatibility. My calipers revealed an inner rim width of approximately 29mm. This is a fairly standard width that can often accommodate a range of tire sizes. I then consulted the specifications for both the Kenda 1.9″ and the Maxxis 2.2″ tires. The Kenda tire’s recommended rim width range was listed as 19-25mm‚ while the Maxxis tire’s was 22-35mm. Seeing that the 29mm inner width of my rims fell within both ranges‚ I felt confident that both tires should fit. However‚ I wasn’t taking any chances. I also checked the bead seat diameter of the rims to ensure that they were appropriately sized for both tires to sit securely. This involved comparing the rim’s diameter to the tire’s bead diameter to avoid potential issues with proper seating. This initial check was essential to avoid any unexpected problems during the mounting process. After a thorough examination‚ I was satisfied that my rims were indeed compatible with both the 1.9″ and 2.2″ tires‚ setting the stage for the next phase of my experiment.

Mounting the 1.9″ Tire

With my initial compatibility check complete‚ I proceeded to mount the Kenda 1.9″ tire onto one of my WTB ST i29 rims. I started by carefully seating one bead of the tire onto the rim. This required a bit of finesse; I found it helpful to use tire levers‚ but only sparingly to avoid damaging the rim or the tire. I worked my way around the rim‚ ensuring the bead was evenly seated. Once one bead was fully seated‚ I then tackled the second bead. This part proved slightly more challenging‚ as the narrower 1.9″ tire required more precision to get the bead to pop into place. I used tire levers again‚ employing the same cautious approach. Once both beads were fully seated‚ I inflated the tire using a high-volume floor pump. I paid close attention to the tire’s bead as it inflated‚ listening carefully for any signs of a leak or improper seating. The tire inflated smoothly and evenly‚ and there were no signs of the bead slipping or popping off. After reaching the recommended pressure‚ I inspected the tire for any imperfections or issues. It sat perfectly on the rim‚ with the bead snug against the rim’s bead seat. The overall process was straightforward‚ though it did require some patience and attention to detail. The narrower profile of the 1.9″ tire made it a bit more delicate to mount compared to larger tires‚ but with careful handling‚ the installation was a success. I was pleased with the result—a perfectly mounted 1.9″ tire ready for the next stage of my experiment.

Mounting the 2.2″ Tire

Following the successful mounting of the 1.9″ tire‚ I moved on to the Maxxis 2.2″ tire. Anticipating a potentially easier installation due to the wider profile‚ I approached this task with a degree of confidence. I began‚ as before‚ by seating one bead onto the rim. The wider tire initially seemed to slip on more easily‚ requiring less force than the 1.9″ tire. However‚ the increased volume of the 2.2″ tire meant that getting both beads fully seated proved to be a bit more of a challenge. While the initial seating was smoother‚ the final seating of the second bead required more effort and precision. I found myself using tire levers more frequently than with the 1.9″ tire‚ although I remained cautious to avoid damaging the rim or the tire. Once both beads were fully seated‚ I inflated the tire using my high-volume floor pump. Interestingly‚ the inflation process felt slightly different; the 2.2″ tire seemed to require more air pressure initially to seat the bead completely. Once inflated to the recommended pressure‚ the tire sat firmly and evenly on the rim. The wider profile of the 2.2″ tire provided a more substantial and visually pleasing fit on the rim compared to the 1.9″ tire. There were no signs of slippage or leaks. After a thorough inspection‚ I was satisfied with the result – a perfectly mounted 2;2″ tire ready for the on-trail comparison. The experience highlighted that while wider tires might seem easier to mount initially‚ the final seating of the beads can still require careful attention and technique.

On-the-Trail Comparison⁚ Feel and Performance

My test ride involved a familiar trail near my home‚ offering a mix of terrain – smooth fire roads‚ rocky sections‚ and some technical climbs and descents. First‚ I rode with the 1.9″ tires. I immediately noticed a more responsive feel; the bike felt quicker and more agile‚ particularly when cornering. The smaller contact patch provided a more direct connection to the trail‚ allowing for precise maneuvering. However‚ on rougher sections‚ the smaller tire size resulted in a harsher ride‚ with more vibrations transmitted through the handlebars and seat. The grip was adequate on most surfaces but lacked the confidence-inspiring traction of the wider tire on loose or slippery terrain. Switching to the 2.2″ tires‚ the difference was immediately apparent. The ride was noticeably smoother and more comfortable‚ absorbing bumps and vibrations with greater ease; The wider contact patch provided superior traction‚ especially on loose gravel and rocky ascents. I felt a greater sense of stability and control‚ particularly at higher speeds and on steeper descents. However‚ the increased rolling resistance was noticeable; the bike felt slightly less responsive and required more effort to accelerate; Cornering felt slightly less precise‚ though still manageable. The 2.2″ tires excelled in providing a comfortable and confident ride on challenging terrain‚ but at the cost of some responsiveness. Ultimately‚ the best tire choice depends on the specific riding style and terrain preference. For technical trails requiring agility and precision‚ the 1.9″ tires proved advantageous. Conversely‚ for smoother‚ more comfortable rides on varied terrain‚ the 2.2″ tires offered superior traction and stability.

Final Verdict⁚ Choosing the Right Tire

After my thorough testing of both 1.9″ and 2.2″ tires on my trusty WTB ST i29 rims‚ I’ve reached a conclusion⁚ the “best” tire size is highly subjective and depends entirely on individual riding preferences and the typical terrain encountered. For me‚ the 1.9″ tires offered a nimble and responsive ride‚ perfect for quick‚ technical trails where agility is paramount. The lighter weight and reduced rolling resistance were noticeable advantages on flatter sections and during climbs. However‚ the trade-off was a slightly harsher ride and less confidence-inspiring grip on loose or challenging surfaces; Conversely‚ the 2.2″ tires provided a noticeably smoother‚ more comfortable ride‚ absorbing bumps and offering superior traction‚ particularly on loose or rocky terrain. The increased stability at higher speeds and on steeper descents was a significant benefit. The improved grip gave me more confidence navigating tricky sections. However‚ the increased weight and rolling resistance were noticeable. Ultimately‚ I found that the 2.2″ tires were better suited to my typical riding style and the trails I frequent‚ which often include rocky sections and loose gravel. If I were primarily riding smoother‚ less technical trails‚ I might favor the lighter‚ more responsive 1.9″ tires. My advice to anyone considering this upgrade is to carefully consider your riding style and the types of trails you regularly tackle. A test ride with both sizes‚ if possible‚ is highly recommended before making a final decision. Don’t just rely on online reviews; your personal experience will be the best guide in choosing the perfect tire size for your needs.