Is there a benefit to running a wider front tire than rear?

[iab2hieY]

Hi - I have a gravel bike that has about 60mm of spacing in the fork, so I am thinking I can safely use a 700x50c wire.  The manufacturer only advises a max of 32mm - I currently have a 38mm, but if the wheel goes out of true, it'd be game over, so I would likely switch down to a 32mm.

With a larger front tire (and since my bike has no suspension at all), it'd help to give me more cushioning and traction on gravel.  I can also handle ruts and potholes a little better.  I have a "standard" road bike rim, would I need a wider rim for that wide of a tire?  It would also make sense to have a wider rim as I'd have more air making for a more comfortable ride too, right?

Since the rear tire is still skinny, I would have problems going up loose gravel, but coming down should be much improved since, right?


Thanks,

Walter

[John Nettles]

The sole benefit would be as you say more cushion on bumps and gravel and better traction (assuming not a smooth tire for gravel).  Yes, you very well may need a wider rim.  I would check out Peter White Cycles or go to BikeForums.net and ask the Mechanics subforum to answer the rim width question.

If you plan on doing a lot of gravel loaded touring, you might start to consider buying a true adventure bike as they are great for off-road touring, many of which accept shocks.

Tailwinds, John