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Tubulars for racing??

GandhiwasfromBallyfermot

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.

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Chips Lovell

There's a few things to consider:

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.
Less complex rim construction/reinforcement usually makes for a lighter wheel.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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)

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.

Chips Lovell

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118508779#Comment_118508779

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.

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.