Training with race tires

I usually train with gatorskins but for a few weeks between races, I have been going with the gp 4000. Anyone else going this route? I like how the gp feels… Less rolling resistance not to mention that if I take them off, they are a pain to get back on. I ride 650s so they are extra tight

When I train on my tri bike, I train with race tires on race wheels. I have never flatted in a race to date (sound of wood knocking). I have also never raced on a tire or tube that didn’t have several hundred uneventful miles in them already.

When I train on my road bike, I train on box rims with whatever tires happen to be on there.

When I train on my Karate Monkey, I have the most fun.

I don’t swap equipment on my bikes. I guess I’m just too lazy.

my rear wheel is a powertap that I throw a disc cover on for races. I train and race on cont gp4000s. I usually have a spare. I just check my tire before races to make sure it’s in decent condition. My front race wheel is different than what I normally train on…so it doesn’t see as many miles. I’ve considered leaving it on and doing the same.

my rear wheel is a powertap that I throw a disc cover on for races. I train and race on cont gp4000s. I usually have a spare. I just check my tire before races to make sure it’s in decent condition. My front race wheel is different than what I normally train on…so it doesn’t see as many miles. I’ve considered leaving it on and doing the same.

Similar here. Train on 4kS, throw on cover for races.

My front race wheel has an R4 Aero and latex tube in it, but doesn’t rack up too much mileage.
Rear A-race setup, I’ll remove the Conti and throw on my Belgian basement-aged RXL Pro and latex tube.

May even hafta break out the A-race gear to ensure I sufficiently crush Beeeeefcake dreams at West Point next weekend.

they are nice tires to ride on. The gatorskin clinchers are sort of a dreadful tire to ride, they don’t flex much and corner poorly and roll like crap. If you have to ride them in the winter (we do around here) then they are the best of the winter tires, but they still kind of stink to ride in the summer.

i like training on my gator skins, slow ass bullet proof tires. never left me stranded anywhere and only make me stronger cranking those babies around…

Right with ya. Now if I just had the arm strength and skill to change from the gators to the GPs. Such a pain.

May even hafta break out the A-race gear to ensure I sufficiently crush Beeeeefcake dreams at West Point next weekend.

I plan on conserving all my energy for the bike and run by drafting off you on the swim. ON. YOUR. LEFT!!!

http://www.sherv.net/cm/emoticons/hand-gestures/middle-finger-rude-gesture-smiley-emoticon.gif

Right with ya. Now if I just had the arm strength and skill to change from the gators to the GPs. Such a pain.

using soap lather or windex as a lubricant can make those tires go on easier

If you use those same tires on race day you are much more likely to flat. You also wear away the aero shape of the 4000s. I wait till im done with a set as races tiresnthen move them to training tire duty.

Seriously? Ill have to try that. I once got them on but ended up with a pinch flat on both. Solid job on my part

Seriously? Ill have to try that. I once got them on but ended up with a pinch flat on both. Solid job on my part

yes, if you just take the lather off the top and get it all up inside the tire it will allow the tube to slide and not pinch. In understand warming the tires in a dryer can help also.

Once they are mounted push the tire casing sideways and see if the tube is pinched under the bead. If no, add some air, maybe 60 pounds and spin the tire. If it has a hop, the tube is generally pinched and you have to deflate and flex the tire around until it pops loose.

Then switch to a different tire brand next time.

I ride with better tires, Pro Race, Vittoria, etc. but I do not race with those tires. I don’t mind that they might not last as long because they feel better but I have had good luck with my tires so that’s good (fingers crossed).