Honestly, preferences and expectations vary from person to person.
Sometimes it’s helpful, and sometimes it’s not helpful at all…
Wait, which is it?
It’s because the evaluation varies greatly depending on what kind of feel you prefer.
I just want to get at least 5,000 kilometers out of them.
I’m not particularly looking for grip or wear.
Since I prioritize durability, the selection is relatively easy, I think.
What matters is durability and wet performance—those are really important.
The “5,000 kilometers is good enough” crowd, but they want grip too
People who don’t ride long distances and don’t expect much tire life.
The pragmatists have fewer options than either of the former groups, so choosing is easier for them too.
But there are trends, so I want to stay aware of the latest information.
Memories stick with you strongly. For better or worse.
Once I get a bad impression of a tire brand, I tend to avoid it.
That’s how I feel.
Conversely, with brands I’ve had good experiences with, I stick with them for a long time, and I can forgive them even if the feel isn’t quite right. I think that’s the impression I have.
I think it’s because I’ve internalized that brand’s characteristics.
Switching brands means having to learn and get used to a new feel, and maybe I just don’t like that.
There’s no room for failure (*’▽’)
Choosing the wrong tire is rough.
There aren’t really any bad tires out there, but when preferences differ, the feel changes dramatically.
Even a good tire can end up leaving a bad impression.
Brand, desired mileage, price, conditions
I think it’s good to work through these things in your own mind.
Sure, you could just say “Nankang is fine”—that’s an option too.
But I think it’s more fun to try different things.
Dive deeper into consumables you can enjoy.
Tires might be the most important part, if you think about it.
They can dramatically change your bike’s character for the better.
“Wow, it’s this easy to ride?” …I thought good tread was all that mattered…
It could be even more fun.
Take in what the world has to say, process it in your own mind, choose a consumable you can enjoy, and make it your own. That’s the way to go.
