I e-mailed Tufo - this is what the questions/answers were:
Question 1: If you put sealant in a tubular - how
long is it good for? Can you just leave it in there
for a couple years?
It will eventually dry out, good for few months.
So what do you do then? I have a race in a couple weeks then none for about 6 months - do I just put more sealant in? Will my tubular get heavier and heavier? I’m not replacing tubulars every few months…need to ask them this.
Question 2: I’m using extreme tape for my wheels.
How does changing a flat work? Will the tape come off
with the tubular - hence I need to carry new tape on
me?
The tape will stay on the tire if a clean rim is used, spare tape and
tire recommended.
This sounds difficult if you want to change a flat during a race - put new tape on during a race?
Question 3: Should I use plumber’s tape with the valve
extenders?
The have O-ring seal, not necessary.
Interesting replies Dave. I can only guess there are two options with this.
Keep the sealant with you in case of a puncture and use it then. personally, I would think that this would take longer than putting on a new tubular. I have no experience with tubulars yet, but that would be my guess from what I’ve read.
Put the sealant in the tyres ahead of time, just for something like an iron distance event, and then toss the tyres afterwards. Given the cost of entry to an iron distance event, the cost of all the stuff you use in a years’ training, I don’t think the cost of a set of tyres is too big a deal. It also means you wouldn’t have to carry a spare, and can be pretty certain you’re not going to have to stop for repairs. When my time comes, I think this is the way I shall approach it, unless someone with experience can suggest otherwise.
I’d be inclined to carry a spare anyway. If you’re unlucky enough to get a sidewall cut or a long-ish gash, the sealant might not be able to hold. Better to carry an extra few hundred grams than to watch your big day go up in smoke.