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Apr 30, 2016 1:53 pm
Apr 30, 2016 1:53 pm
Subject: Re: Thoughts on Blockley tyres?
Richard, My M45 arrived with 600x19 Lesters. The somewhat domed tread profile of these tyres meant that there was fairly limited tread actually on the road. The car's steering was light. These Lester tyres had a pattern like a 1950s tyre and were very quiet. I replaced the Lesters with Blockley tyres. It turned out that 600x19 Blockleys have a much smaller outer diameter than the Lesters that have the same claimed size. To maintain high gearing for long distance touring, I went for 650x19 Blockleys. They are a much bigger tyre than the 600x19s of the same brand and cost a fair bit more than 600x19s. These big Blockleys are wide, with a flat tread profile and lots of rubber on the road. Thus, the M45 now has very heavy steering and a reduced turning circle. There is more road noise too. I assume this is because of the much bolder tread pattern on the Blockleys. Despite these issues, I like the Blockleys. They look just right. More importantly, they feel secure. In the pouring rain, I like to know that I have serious tyres. Through the process, I have learned to make sure the size you order is what you really want. The difference between Blockley 600x19 and Blockley 650x19 is very significant. More surprisingly, 600x19 Blockleys are nothing like 600x19 Lesters in profile and, therefore, outer diameter. Best of luck with your decision and your car's new boots.
Michael
Richard, My M45 arrived with 600x19 Lesters. The somewhat domed tread profile of these tyres meant that there was fairly limited tread actually on the road. The car's steering was light. These Lester tyres had a pattern like a 1950s tyre and were very quiet. I replaced the Lesters with Blockley tyres. It turned out that 600x19 Blockleys have a much smaller outer diameter than the Lesters that have the same claimed size. To maintain high gearing for long distance touring, I went for 650x19 Blockleys. They are a much bigger tyre than the 600x19s of the same brand and cost a fair bit more than 600x19s. These big Blockleys are wide, with a flat tread profile and lots of rubber on the road. Thus, the M45 now has very heavy steering and a reduced turning circle. There is more road noise too. I assume this is because of the much bolder tread pattern on the Blockleys. Despite these issues, I like the Blockleys. They look just right. More importantly, they feel secure. In the pouring rain, I like to know that I have serious tyres. Through the process, I have learned to make sure the size you order is what you really want. The difference between Blockley 600x19 and Blockley 650x19 is very significant. More surprisingly, 600x19 Blockleys are nothing like 600x19 Lesters in profile and, therefore, outer diameter. Best of luck with your decision and your car's new boots.
Michael