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Tubulars for racing??

  • 20-01-2022 05:00PM
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 420 ✭✭


    Have been considering picking up a pair of tubulars for racing purposes only, up until now I've been racing on clinchers. What are people's views on it, are they worth it? I would only be looking to pick up a second hand pair cheap enough. Some of the more experienced guys in the club swear by them for racing.



Comments

  • Moderators, Politics Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 24,277 Mod ✭✭✭✭Chips Lovell


    There's a few things to consider:

    1. Generally speaking they'll roll better than clinchers. While there are some lab tests that find certain clinchers have a lower RR than tubs, on average I think they still come out a bit better.
    2. Less complex rim construction/reinforcement usually makes for a lighter wheel.
    3. Tubular rims do make carbon wheels a bit more practical and less fragile. Because the tube isn't next to the braking surface, you're unlikely to get heat-induced blowouts. That also means you can use a latex inner tube with a carbon rim. In addition the shape of the rim is also a bit more robust and less likely to get damaged.
    4. Provided you've glued it on right, you can ride a tubular flat. That's only really relevant if you've a car behind you with the prospect of a spare wheel.
    5. Fitting them is a bit of a faff. You need to stretch them on the rim first, leave them 24 hours and then glue them and then leave another 24 hours usually.
    6. Repairing punctures is also a faff. You've the choice of new tyre (expensive), whacking in sealant (messy, unreliable and ultimately ruins the tyre), or opening them up and patching the tube yourself (time consuming).

    I used to race on tubulars but stopped bothering with them now that I don't do many open races or stage races when I'd usually have a car behind me. I only use tubs now for TTs.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,169 ✭✭✭fat bloke


    If I may ask a question. If you get a flat could you rip off the flat tyre, put an unglued new one on and ride home (reeeally slowly and carefully? - like a car limp mode)



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,335 ✭✭✭koutoubia


    Yes you can.

    But if you use a fresh pre glued tub then the new glue will bond enough with old glue left on the rim you will be surprised how well they bond.

    if you use a can of gas then the high pressure alone will keep the tyre in place.

    FWIW I use tubs daily.



  • Moderators, Politics Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 24,277 Mod ✭✭✭✭Chips Lovell


    I did a TT last year on spare tyre that I'd put on after puncturing before the start. Straight course, so no hard cornering. Then rode home on it.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,981 ✭✭✭Diarmuid


    I've a set of tubs. I barely use them anymore. Yes, gluing tubs isn't the most difficult task in the world but the benefit isn't worth the faffing.



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