So I’ve been riding on my vittoria slick’s for quite some time and have a few “knicks” in them, but to-date have had no issues. With my first 70.3 this weekend (Steelhead), I figured it may be smart to finally upgrade my tires to avoid an issues during such a key race. Since I just purchased the new slick tires and will only be able to get about 1:30 of riding time on them before the race, I’m wondering whether or not I should make the change.
So here is my question:
Do I leave my current tires on and bring an extra (just in case - given I will not break them in), or do I put on (and race with) the new tires?
Thanks!
P.S. I apologize in advance for having no clue about this sort of stuff.
As long as you get a ride in on them before race day you should be fine. Keep the old ones or have new back ups just incase. I’d make sure you wheels are trued up as well to keep from causing any unwanted ware issues to the new tires.
I’ll be at Steelhead racing this weekend as well. Good luck!
Agree with the previous poster, make sure you get a least one ride in on them to ensure everything is good to go. I actually keep a set of tires just for racing (Conti Attack/Force).
Are you in 35-39? If so, just ride them… knicks and all.
I run GP4000S II front and rear. I agree with Slowtwtich consensus that think they are the best all around tire for aero, rolling, wear and puncture resistance combination. I also don’t think the break-in is that critical. The little mold release split is still on my front tire with about 200 miles on it. I’m going to keep it on through IMWI in Sept. You could put them on and do a 20 mile or so shake down ride. I rode about 27 on my new rear tire Sunday Though the rear aerodynamically is less critical.
Supposedly they are more aero with about 50-100 miles on them and aero properties start to fall off after 300 or so miles. Don’t forget your latex tubes and sealant… too.
In order of priority and new tire provides me:
a new bead that not stretched and unlikely to blow off the rim sitting in transition (happened to me 3 weeks ago in my basement)
Fresh tread with no cuts so lowest potential for a flat. No minor knicks on sidewall.
Maximum aerodynamics
Fully rounded profile for better handling
A chance to practice changing tires before a race.
Another great training tire in good condition. I’m up to about 4 now in varying stages of wear. I’ll never buy another traiing tire again. The 2nd advantage of GP4000S … they make a descent training tire for the front wheel. I still like a Gatorskin on the rear because they are super durable for use on the trainer.
I’ll be there and ready for war… or rather ready for the Stubleski Express train to roll past me late on the bike leg. BBS says riding a 0.97IF would get me there… or in other words just above my Olympic Distance pace. Nice.
I’m in the M30-34; not like you would have to worry about me anyway (I’m super slow). But, its’ my first 70.3 so I want to use my best judgement on equipment to hopefully avoid any time concequences (i.e., flat tire, busted tire, etc).
Tire Crr tends to drop with a bit of wear, say 50 miles or so, and that’s what I shoot for with a new tire before racing on it. But 1.5 hours of riding before the race is fine, call it close enough, and much better than risking your race with an older tire with cuts in it.
I’m in the M30-34; not like you would have to worry about me anyway (I’m super slow). But, its’ my first 70.3 so I want to use my best judgement on equipment to hopefully avoid any time concequences (i.e., flat tire, busted tire, etc).
I rode with new tires in an Olympic a couple weeks ago. I put maybe 5 miles on them at home just to make sure all was good. I believe the roads at Steelhead should be smooth. I know they mentioned some repaving after last years race (county was waiting until race was over). Of course they could have used chip-seal which would suck.
Steelhead was my first 70.3 (2012). I really like it. I think it’s a very friendly course for the first-timer. The swim is the only variable. Lake MI is a moody lake.
I’m in the M30-34; not like you would have to worry about me anyway (I’m super slow). But, its’ my first 70.3 so I want to use my best judgement on equipment to hopefully avoid any time concequences (i.e., flat tire, busted tire, etc).
Do you have a distinctive race kit? Bib #. Since you’re starting 8-12 minutes behind me, there’s a good chance I’ll go by you on lap 2 of the run. Always fun to search out folks to pass the time. It’s relatively boring on the run until about mile 10 or so otherwise where the serious suffering begins.
I would say no… Shouldn’t change anything on your bike within 2 weeks of the race. I put my Zipp wheels on for my last long bike the week before a race. I then test them and anything new on the bike throughout the next week. Bike tube’s can be fine for a few rides then develop a weak spot once it settles, that could be your race and ruin your day.
I’m sure your current tires will get you another 90kms.
I would say no… Shouldn’t change anything on your bike within 2 weeks of the race. I put my Zipp wheels on for my last long bike the week before a race. I then test them and anything new on the bike throughout the next week. Bike tube’s can be fine for a few rides then develop a weak spot once it settles, that could be your race and ruin your day.
I’m sure your current tires will get you another 90kms.
I’ve never seen that happen in 18 years of riding. Its was either a unlucky puncture, or installation error. It always shows up within the first 15-20 miles or so. I do agree you need to test them at least once. Of course every test ride could be the one where you get a flat. Less likely to get a flat on a closed course, than riding to the right or on the shoulder, etc.
Do you have a distinctive race kit? Bib #. Since you’re starting 8-12 minutes behind me, there’s a good chance I’ll go by you on lap 2 of the run. Always fun to search out folks to pass the time. It’s relatively boring on the run until about mile 10 or so otherwise where the serious suffering begins.
If 35-39, I’m actually 4 minutes ahead (I start at 7:48). I assume you will pass me in the swim and still pass me on the run.
Anyway, I am bib 1482 - tri bottoms are royal blue and black with “Children’s Tumor Foundation” on them (either a matching tri top or a black top). If you want to do the math, I am thinking I will go: