[Closed] Cushcore advice/recommendations

what you need is the gravel bikes comfort challenge

https://gravelbikes.cc/tests/cushcore-comfort-improving-inserts-review/

I run them in 2.6/ 2.3 tyres, and I can run lower pressure with more confidence of not damaging my rims.

If it helps, I'm using Fulcrum Red Zone 700 wheels on my bike too.

I'm using the barberi anaconda inserts, they were a prick to get in the tyres, but I've since read that they tend to want a size down from what they state.

To be honest, I'm happy enough with them, now they're in and I've got air and sealant in the tyres. It rolls nice and fast, they do seem to absorb a bit of buzz, and I can run lower pressures without being worried about roots and rocks doing damage; they also helped the tyre to seat and I don't fear tyre roll over even at lower pressures.

I use rimpact inserts in 2.35 tyres and happily run them at 19/20psi, but 15psi might be a bit low, you'd need a 2.6/2.8 to go that low.

Hmmm. Even 18/19psi feels substantially more comfy than 20-22psi. But on the other hand, it’s a fair bit of dough and hassle only for the sake of comfort.

Also, I’m not sure my rear American Classic rim is up to running tubeless any more. I thing I dinged it too badly, which is why I run a tube in the back.

So new back rim, wheel build, plus inserts could make this all quite spendy.

I run 16psi front & 19psi rear with Rimpact inserts. Was on procore before them. Cushcore are burlier than either of them so unless you’re really heavy you’ll be fine sub 20. The only time they feel too low is on fast berms.

If your rim is dinged up then consider schwalbe procore. The high pressure tube is pushing the tyre beads into the rim at 90psi (although that can create its own issues with rims) so they will seal on pretty beaten up rims. Although if your rims are on the narrow side getting any insert in will be a nightmare.

There’s another one called the tannus armour I think. That’s a sort of foam shroud around a tube, so not tubeless at all. It’s meant to be really good. I think NSMB did a review of it.

What about one of the shock absorber seat post jobbies.

Just as an alternative/complimentary measure - I used to get a sore back on my hardtail, but have put some time into working on core strength (setups, plank, leg raises etc) while at the same time trying to improve my tension and posture on the bike. Obviously that can only take you so far in terms of gnar, but it's a massive help!

All this has been extremely helpful thanks guys.

About the shock absorber seat post, it’s actually more shock absorption while standing I’m looking for I guess.

Regarding working on my core strength, in my 52 years, I’ve been completely unable to ever discipline myself to do any Workout training or gym exercises. Mountain biking is the only activity I’ve been able to consistently “discipline” myself to do. So I totally accept your point, but I don’t have a lot of confidence in my ability to work on that!!

Fair enough. Realise now I could have summarised my post "StrongCore, not CushCore"

Do read a bit about the importance of strength training as you get into middle age. I felt a big benefit from starting a year and half ago.

Already feeling the negative physical effects of no gym in lockdown, so I need to get my act together at home sharp-ish.

Back on topic - I use Rimpact and there is a slight damping effect but it's marginal in terms of comfort. More about control and not damaging rims so easily.

Chakaping, do use the normal rimpacts or the pro?
I've got the pro version sitting on the garage. Just trying to summon the will power to put them on.....