Tubular Vs. Clincher, Clincher Vs. Tubular
Anyone who's spent any time on any of the cycling discussion boards knows that the debate between clincher vs. tubular wheels has been going on since the beginning. From an ease-of-use and simplicity standpoint the clinchers win hands down. Today's clincher tires, especially the "open tubular" variety are so good that one wonders why anyone would use anything else.
There's quite a few people out there who still prefer tubulars. Reasons given-the lightest wheels are only available in tubular. Tubular tires are more round rather than oval so they corner better. They "feel" nicer while riding is something I've seen written often. Also, many people I've talked to who ride "tubs" exclusively report far fewer flats.
I decided to try a little experiment. I've always ridden clinchers. I've never bothered with tubs for no other reason than the fact that all the nice wheels that I've liked and ridden happen to be clinchers. I've ridden tubs briefly before when I had a set of Campy Hyperons. I only rode them a few times and sold them because I was in the middle of another bike build and preferred to use the funds for more parts. They were light but I had never dealt with tubs before so I decided it wasn't worth the hassle.
So now I've decided to ride tubulars exclusively until next spring. I want to see any real or perceived benefits. I'd like to see just how much of a pain it is to deal with tubs daily. I've never glued tires before but now I have three sets of tubular wheels. 2 carbon and 1 aluminum. I'll have plenty of practice!
Stay tuned....
