The Continentals are nice riding tires. I've got a set of the 4000's that I like but are back in their original box in the bike dungeon with their blackwalls & yellow tread, just don't look right on a classic bike. If you're looking for a light, supple gum or gum colored sidewall tire that's still easy to find, look to some of our CR supporters. Velo Orange stocks nice tires, although at the present time, it appears nothing narrow (Now isn't that odd!). Of places I've tried, Bicycle Quarterly stocks a 23 mm challenge tire, though their listing says 24-25 mm wide on most rims. I'm a fan of the 26 mm Grand Bois Cerfs which on my rim measures about 25.5 and I like the 28's too. They ride as nice as any vulcanized tire I've ever owned though almost twice as expensive as my old Avocet Fasgrips. I've been wanting to try a set of Challenge tires too, though I'm hooked on the 26 mm Cerfs. Most of these are nice, supple and light tires for their size, if a bit pricey. They(?) say the Grand Bois flat easily, and I've flatted them, but I think they just need some time to age out of their air tight wrapper. Once I'd had a few months on them, they haven't flatted on me since, though I've still not worn out my first set. My rear Cerf has had a very slight 'bump' in it that's noticeable when coasting and sitting heavily, anyone else? But I'll definitely be getting another set soon. I prefer the lightest, most supple tires I can find for my treasured road bikes. Good luck with the hunt.
Happy trails,
Dan Artley, pulling off a set of Veloflex 23s' on the Raleigh Pro for 28 Cerfs for Cirque, in Parkton, Maryland
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