Yes, the mtbr "monster cross" thread has sparked a bit of an obsession. The idea makes sense for rough off roading and even cushy commuting--I just don't want to necessarily have to comply with the monster cross "rules" of narrower than 2.0 tires. I went as far as to mount a 2.3 Exiwolf on my front Ksyrium SL, and left the 36c on the back. The Exi was just a little wide--it would turn in the fork but some of the outer knobs were rubbing a bit. . . so I razor bladed them. Couldn't just let it sit there, so I took it out on its maiden voyage in its altered state, and it was awesome. Rocky rutty fire roads that were uncomfortable before were a breeze. It was reassuring--inspiring, even-- to glance down and behold the monstrosity of a wheel turning beneath me, while realizing I was on my cross bike--almost like riding a new bike. I steered for the bumps, bombed the descents. It was extra fun!

I'm going to feel more comfortable with a bit more clearance widthwise, and my brakes are squeezing (lightly touching under extreme braking, really) the sidewalls, so long-term it would wear some. I'm thinking a 2.1 would work on the front, but I'm not sure. Not sure where to go with width in the back. I did a forum search, but didn't come up with anything right up my alley, so any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks

sweet! cheers to the spirit of tinkering!

I was looking at my Tricross and thinking the same thing, 29er tire in front could easier fit, ilke a Nanoraptor.

But the chainstays seem to be the limiting factor on squeezing in a 29er tire into most cross frames.