So I just finished up my first ride on a tubular wheelset (808/sub9…Conti Comp)
Even with the disc, they are markedly more comfortable to ride than the clinchers I train on (OpenPro, ProRace3).
I thought for sure the disc would negate any perceived comfort, but the ride quality was amazing. These things are plush.
Why is this? Is it because of the carbon wheels vs aluminum clinchers?
Does it have to do with the sew-ups themselves?
Either way, wow.
How much air did you have in the tyres? What is your “normal” PSI for training wheels?
do you tubies have latex tubes inside?
do you use latex tubes in your clinchers?
do you run the same psi?
So I just finished up my first ride on a tubular wheelset (808/sub9…Conti Comp)
Even with the disc, they are markedly more comfortable to ride than the clinchers I train on (OpenPro, ProRace3).
I thought for sure the disc would negate any perceived comfort, but the ride quality was amazing. These things are plush.
Why is this? Is it because of the carbon wheels vs aluminum clinchers?
Does it have to do with the sew-ups themselves?
Either way, wow.
Did you lace these up?
I’m about to embark on my first tubie installation debacle in over 20 years. The Tufo Tape looks easy, but I have received some info that maybe not ideal? I love the simplicity of the tape option, but don’t want to use it if it’s dangerous:(
my guess: it’s the wheels, not the tires. The 808’s (and presumably the sub9 since it’s based on an 808 rim) flex quite a bit. I’m not very observant, and even I notice a difference between an 808 and a training wheel. It’s much more cush.
As far as difference between tubulars and clinchers, I’m 100% convinced the difference is due to people comparing dissimilar wheels or brands of tires , or the power of suggestion. I just spent some time on some Bonty 6.5 clinchers, and I have a pair of the 6.5 tubulars, both with Specialized tires/latex tubes or Specialized tubulars. These are about as similar a setup as you can get, since the wheels are of nearly identical construction (as are the tires). I simply don’t believe anyone could tell a difference in comfort or handling unless they looked.
I think we need to do a double-blind mythbusters thing on this or something…
the tufo tape ends up slower I believe. there is some free rolling resistance to be freed up by using certain gluing procedures.
Did you lace these up?
I’m about to embark on my first tubie installation debacle in over 20 years. The Tufo Tape looks easy, but I have received some info that maybe not ideal? I love the simplicity of the tape option, but don’t want to use it if it’s dangerous:(
Continental Competition Tubulars on Sub9/808. They have butyl tubes. 110 PSI.
Usually train on Mavic Open Pros, Pro Race 3s, Butyl, 110 PSI.
To the guy who asked about tape…it seems like an easier option I’m sure, but it kinda scares me how easy you can rip off a taped tire.
A well-glued tire is damn near impossible to get off. And if you ever decide to switch from tape to glue, godspeed on getting residue off.
The guy who used my wheels last, before I bought them, used tape…and after a few bouts of sore thumbs, blisters, swearing, & beers, I ended up paying my LBS a handsome sum to remove the residue. A week later I got them back. I was glad to pay them.
Whether it’s the new carbon tubular vs aluminum clincher wheels, tires, whatever, I’m thrilled at how the ride today felt.