Do people ride w/different front & rear tire sizes?

[David G.]

I'm still riding my 1984 steel frame.  I transplanted a Dura Ace 7800 groupo after having the rear triangle cold set.  The front brake is now a dual pivot design and sits closer to the tire.  There is less than 3mm clearance between the 28mm tire and the brake.  The rear has ample clearance.  I could run a Compass  Cayuse Pass (26mm) on the front and a Chinook Pass (28mm) on the rear.  The question is what impact it will have on the bike handling.  Yes, the front would need more pressure than I run now, but that's not a deal breaker.

The current rear tire is a Conti Ultra Gator Skin something or other and I'm inclined to have the 2 tires be at least the same brand.

Thanks,