Just when you think fat bike tires are starting to trend smaller, along comes another 5″ tire to challenge those assumptions. Until now, the Vee Tire Co. Snow Shoe 2XL was the only tire that was a true 5″ or larger, even though many slightly smaller tires were lumped into the category. The latest tire to qualify is the new Terrene Johnny 5.
Shown on a Fatback Corvus from Greg Matyas who helped with the design, Terrene says the tire measures a true 5″ wide which means there are many fat bikes it won’t actually fit. However, for those who have the bike and the desire for the most flotation possible, the tire should be a popular choice.
With a studdable tread pattern designed for maximum grip in loose, soft, and sloppy conditions, the tubeless tires can take up to 320 studs per tire. Not surprisingly, it’s not the lightest tire at 1700g, but it is a lot of rubber. Built with Terrene’s winter rubber compound which keeps the rubber soft in cold weather, the 26 x 5″ tires will be offered for $140 without studs or $260 with studs. Look for these to arrive in October, just before fat bike season in the north kicks off.
For more practical riding about town, Terrene is adding a winter commuter tire called the Griswold. Only available in one option, the 700c x 38mm tire will include 110 studs through the center of the tire though it will be capable of running 220 studs total. Built with Terrene’s Tough casing and winter rubber compound, the folding tubeless tires will sell for $95.
Finally, due to consumer demand the Cake Eater now will be available in a 29 x 2.8″ size. It’s the same Cake Eater we’ve come to know and love, but now with the new size and will sell for $80 without studs, and $160 with.
