durable and wide touring tire for 700c?

[tnoguchi]

Hi,

I'm planning a self-supported tour through South Asia, and
will be taking a Surly Cross-Check with 700c wheels.

I'm trying to find a decent set of tires for this and was
wondering if anyone knew of any out there? I've heard mixed
things about the Conti Top Touring 2000's and some things
about the Schwalbe Marathons. Can anyone suggest some
good resilient tires that would stand up to many miles and
abuse?

Also I'm thinking somewhere in the width of 40c, or even
higher since the Cross Check takes tires up to 45c with room
to spare.

Any suggestions?

thank you,

Tak

[JayH]

Some people have also recommended the Armadillos from Specialized... Not sure if they have 700c widths.

I tour on my MTB with 26" wheels so no experience yet on touring on a road bike...

Jay

[wanderingwheel]

I have had the best luck with Avocet Cross tires.  They roll reasonably well on the road and can handle sesnible off roading.  Even on a loaded bike, I've had them last over 3000 miles.  They have a very thick tread so they are difficult to puncture.  You can also find them in many widths; I generally use 32s or 35s.  They have a squarish profile so spirited cornering on them can be an adventure as the bike goes abruplty from very little lean to a lot of lean.

Some things to consider is how much off-road riding you will be doing, if any, and how much weight you are carrying.  The general rules are the more off road riding, the more tread you want, and the more weight, the wider the tire should be.

Sean