Bicycles Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for people who build and repair bicycles, people who train cycling, or commute on bicycles. It only takes a minute to sign up.
Sign up to join this community
For the last 3 years I've been using light (800grams) tyres front and rear.
Since I've been having too many rear tyre pinch flats (tried everything: high PSI, tubeless, heavy duty tubes) I'd like to switch to a real double ply DH tyre for the rear which weights 1200 grams.
Is running a heavier tyre only on the rear suggested? Or should I switch both front and rear at once? Maybe for bike balance issues while jumping etc?
p.s. I ride mtb all mountain and downhill
There is no need to have equal tires on both wheels, except for aesthetics.
Just make sure that front tire has enough grip so you can remain in control.
As for getting pinch flats - make sure you mount tubes correctly and they are not trapped between tire and rim. Having high pressure should help you avoid pinches. More durable tire will help with punctures, not with pinch flats.
P.S. My own experience is limited to MTB XC marathons.
Matching tires is great if you spend more time showing off your ride than actually riding it, otherwise mismatch to your hearts content!
There are some effects of mismatched weight though. Bike handling will change slightly as more weight is rearward. Since your riding AM/DH, this is a good thing as it will give you a little more stability on the downs. On the other hand, it's going to mean that the front end will lift a little easier on the ups.
Same problems will affect you in the air, though to what degree depends on your riding style.
These both depend on your riding style and how sensitive you are to changes in your bike's weight/handling.
As a side note, if you have problems with both pinch flats and sidewall/tread cuts, I'd recommend the dual tube/tubeless setup. This allows you to pinch a tube, or seal a cut and still have a tube for air. Also, look for tires with a higher durometer (rubber hardness) which should be less prone to punctures, cuts, and deformation.
