My experience is that any good wire bead tire will work OK, though something 1" wide or more (true width) is probably better. Panaracer Pasela is probably a good choice, as it is still easily available in wire bead 27 x 1 1/8 and 27 x 1 1/4 at reasonable prices. I've also found that one should avoid overinflating tires on the nonhooked rims. I've had even wire beads blow off these rims at 110 psi, but the same tire will work fine at 85 or 90 psi. This is another reason to use a bit wider tire, as a wider tire will give an equally firm ride at a lower pressure.
Regards,
Jerry Moos Houston, TX
Daniel Artley <dartley@co.ba.md.us> wrote: I will soon be resurrecting a set of wheels with alloy non hooked bead rims, 27" Araya's. Tires are pretty dry (Cyclepro's with the S tread in the raised center bead to give it a time frame of the last time they were used) and I'll be looking for something that works, hopefully with gumwalls. I've heard of the problems with non hooked bead rims, but what exactly is the difference in the tires? Can I use most any wide section wire bead tire and be careful about seating and tire pressure? Am I trapped in getting a specific type of wired on? Is there anyplace that specializes in the type of tire I need. I've suspected that the box stores would carry the older styles for cheaper bikes, but I'd rather not go there. I'm not expecting to find the old Dunlop road racing tires again, but if someone could help with suggestions, I'd appreciate it.
Dan, looking up from the bottom of the parts bins, Artley Parkton, Maryland