Hi,
I’ve just heard that the road surface for the Worlds this year is ‘three quarter inch gravel’ - typical back-country NZ roads.
I’ve currently got Tuffo 19mm 195g tubulars mounted on Corima Winium wheels.
Do you think I should get something larger? Any recommendations?
Get 22mm tubulars. You won’t regret it. You’ll be faster. That’s right- you will be faster.
From the Tufo web site.
"TUFO Special - S33
Very popular model of tubular and tubular clincher tire with good mileage performance and excellent riding properties. High puncture resistance combined with low rolling resistance predetermine this model for use at road races and triathlon where bad quality road is a concern. Fine tread pattern, 305 TPI underneath the tread."
I train on the S33 Special’s, but will be racing on the Elite’s - 23mm, 440 tpi casing, but they are $$.
Hi Composite Carbons or Elite Road’s are the tires of choice. If you prefer their construction and if you can find them Continental makes their Grand Prix in 24mm size AND a 25mm size. If used them in RR with dirt/gravel/pave secitions. inflation range is 80-170psi.
-SD
I have not seen the specific course but many NZ roads are built out of a “3/8 crushed rock chip seal”. In the US, most places use a “1/4 crushed rock chip seal” on back roads. You’ll get more road vibration but it should be a raceable condition. Going a little wider might help, but I don’t think it will be as bad as you might think.