[CR]Tubulars

(Example: Framebuilding:Paint)

Date: Thu, 19 Jan 2006 15:47:16 -0800 (PST)
From: "Dan Siniff" <dcsiniff@sbcglobal.net>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Tubulars

I used tubulars during the 80s to early 90s due to ride and price point. I remember "tubular free in 93" was my motto because of the Michelin slicks rode pretty well and were 1/2 the cost of a medium priced tubular. During the time I rode Clement Futura's for training/ ever day wear and got about 1500 mi a rear tire. I though was good , I am 6'2' and at racing weight about 182lbs, right now I am in "old men that get fat in the winter" mode. I returned to tubulars last year when I decided 40-60 dollars for a "racing slick clincher" was getting a little steep. After only a few miles on the wonderful garden hose design I remembered why I liked tubulars. I am using Rallys with better luck them others on the list, one thing I do with inexpensive tubies is never exceed 90 lbs, it seems if the air pressure is pushed the casing stretches and the tire fails/ flats. I also use Vitoria Extreme and Corsa CX which I ride at higher pressure. As for high volume tires I have a pr of Challenge Paris-Robauix, they are on a '62 Rochet that only gets out for ride when the sun, moon and stars are in the right place. I love the volume and the ride but can not get a good opinion about longevity of the tire. Another tire I am using on my commuter is the Tufo Diamond D-28 with skin wall. This is a great tire, designed for hard pack cyclocross, it works great as a high volume road in all weather and road conditions tire. I was also impressed on how nice the tire glued up, it was very straight and round. One thing I did not like was the side ridge on the tire, I thought if I cornered hard I would get into it and crash. But NO! I have pushed the bike pretty hard with no issues and the bonus is in the rain the ridge helps keep the stray down, it is a great tire. I would like to try a pr of Severio Corsa from the Yellow Jersey, I believe it is a "house " tire. Any one try these?

Daniel Siniff
Bay City, MI