[CR] L Eroica- Tires/Weather.

(Example: Production Builders:LeJeune)

Date: Sun, 6 Feb 2011 12:44:18 -0800 (PST)
From: "dave martinez" <dmart84815@yahoo.com>
To: CR List <ClassicRendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR] L Eroica- Tires/Weather.


Hello All, The first time I rode L' Eroica, in 2007, I used 28mm Paselas on my 1956 Cinelli Mod B. They worked perfect, particularly on the downhill curves where there might be some loose material waiting to catch a wheel. Also there are sudden drop offs in the transition from pavement to strada biancha. A wider rear tire will give you a bit of a margin on safety,comfort and handling. After a few miles of strada bianca, I became more relaxed, and it was almost as though I was back in 1973; riding my ot Bultaco Pursang on the mountain fire roads. In preparation our ride in 2010, I wanted to once again use the 28mm Paselas, but they didnt fit the stays on the Walter Generati (Cinelli). So with some reservation I took 25mm Paselas.My wife, Linda rode the short course on a borrowed Cinelli SC. When we took delivery of the bike, I noticed the beautiful little Cinelli had 23cm tires. I didnt tell Linda my concern as it would have added to her anxiety. Some things are best left unsaid. After a few adjustments, she was riding like a seasoned veteran, with no handling issues with narrow tires.Another factor to consider is the weather. It rained the night before on our 2007 ride and we were hit with rain during the ride in 2010. This seems to compact the soil and improve traction. All good. Regards,David MartinezFremont CaUS of Aplanning on returning in 2012