Soma Saga Max Tire Width

[ATB1991]

Hey all,

I have sort of given up on drop bar bikes at this point and my Saga is sitting in the garage seeing little to no use. I'm thinking about converting it to more of a commuter/gravel touring bike and wondering if it's even possible to do what I want. Anybody shove a wide tire in there? What's the widest you've managed with or without fenders? Any converts to a Jones bar? I imagine I'll need a new stem and obviously shifters/brake levers but that's no issue. Any tips for converting to a flat bar? Thanks!

[ATB1991]

Any experience with these on a Saga? Surly 700C Knard Tire > Components > Tires > Dirt Tires | Jenson USA

I also found that these fit a Saga: Cazadero Tires (700c/650b x 42mm) | SOMA Fabrications but are a little out of my price range...

[jmctav23]

Soma's site says it will fit up to 700x47mm so any of the gravel tires in the mid-40s will work. They are mostly new models though and pricing seems pretty high. I've seen mostly good things about the knard. I've been really impressed with the continental speed-ride in 42mm (actually more like a 38-39 depending on rim) with mixed dirt/gravel/pavement use and it can be found cheaply sometimes. No help on the jones conversion...

[jeskej]

Currently building up a Soma Saga DC with Surly Knard's on WTB ChrisCross I19 rims. Test fitting, there appears to be plenty of room, if you want some pictures I can probably get some this weekend.

[jeskej]

Currently building up a Soma Saga DC with Surly Knard's on WTB ChrisCross I19 rims. Test fitting, there appears to be plenty of room, if you want some pictures I can probably get some this weekend.

Here's some pictures in case anyone is interested (apologize for the crappy camera phone quality):


Side View


Seat Stay


Chainstay


Fork

I can actually get the tires past the V-Brakes without deflating (unlike the last frame these were on)