Texas - Gumwalls vs all black tires

Gang, when speaking of 27" tires is one of these considered "better" or more desirable than the other?

Gumwall:

http://www.universalcycles.com/images//products/medium/22995.jpg

All black:

http://www.universalcycles.com/images//products/medium/12935.jpg

Chris!

black will resist oxidation longer than the gumwall.

To me, depends on the bike. I'm a fan of skin / gum walls when they aren't completely cheap looking. Otherwise, the all black looks "better" in my opinion on most bikes regardless of age.

I agree, it depends on the bike. A "racer" looks better in black, IMHO. A tourer, commuter, run-around-bike looks better with gum walls. That is how I differentiate my 27 in tires.

I need a set of 27's in red if any one runs across a set.

those conti ultras suck!!
beware!!!

those conti ultras suck!!
beware!!!

I picked those at random just for an example, but while we're on the subject can you provide some details on what sucks about them? I'm going to be in the market for some solid black 27s soon, ideally narrow ones like those I posted. I might try to trade my gumwalls for solid black too.

Chris

I've found the Conti's to be a bugger to mount. (700c) Lots of time spent sweating and cursing. Tight, tight tight! I'm glad that they're tough, because my first flat with them will be a very large female dog.

for 27s though YMMV.

Oh and by the way...+1 on the gum walls oxidizing faster than all black. I have some older tires that would still be good if they weren't gum walls.

rubber's too soft.
flats easily.