Bicycle Mechanics - 700x23c Tire Problem

Yesterday on my bike into work I got a flat :( . This was mostly due to the streets not having been swept yet from the winter. There is just so much grime on the road. So... I bought a new tube 700 x 18-25c and tried to put it in last night. I was having a hell of a time. The tube kept popping out of the size somewhere no matter what I did. What a pain in the ass :mad: . I remember this happening when I bought the tires and the shop tried to put them on for me. They had to try a couple of sets before they got them on. I should have clued in there and just gone with another tire.
I am just wondering if anyone can explain why this is happening? The tires are made by Kendra, I believe. I am debating getting new tires cause changing a tube shouldn't provide this kind of headache. Can anyone recommend a good road tire that will provide grip, puncture protection and longevity. Maybe even a resource on the web that reviews tires?

Thanks guys
:beer:

I don't think the tire is the problem. Whenever I have had a problem with tubes not wanting to stay in the tire it was because the tube was a bit too big in circumference for the rim. This seems to happen with the lower cost tubes. Whenever I have used good quality tubes I have never had a problem. As far as tires go, I've become a convert to the Bontrager line of tires. They are really good and excellent value for the money. Their tubes are also excellent and come with a fresh roll of rim tape in the box.

Road Bike Review (http://www.roadbikereview.com) has tons of reviews for tires and everything else road bike related. Personally I have not had the problem you mentioned.

If this is your first flat I wouldn't worry too much about switching tires yet. If not and your roads are horrible (glass, nails, etc) pick up a set of Specialized Armadillos, they are about as flat resistantant as you can get, but will be heavy and maybe a bit less smooth of a ride. If your roads are just moderately bad take a look at Continental Grand Prix 4 Seasons, they should be highly flat resistant and about as smooth and light weight as most other tires.

... pick up a set of Specialized Armadillos, they are about as flat resistantant as you can get, but will be heavy and maybe a bit less smooth of a ride. If your roads are just moderately bad take a look at Continental Grand Prix 4 Seasons, they should be highly flat resistant and about as smooth and light weight as most other tires.

I use 28mm Armadillos for commuting and transportation and 23mm Continental Ultra 2000s for sport. The only problem I have had with the Contis is that they are an EXTREMELY tight fit on my Campag. Omega rims. I concur with bg4533's observations regarding the Armadillos.

I've been running the Conti Ultra Gatorskins on the three road bikes in my house with great success.

Ok, I hope I don't jinx myself here but here goes. I'm on my second set of Ultra Gators and have not had a flat for over 3500 miles.. Really folks, I speak the truth.

Yes, they may be a bit heavier than what I refer to as "Band-aid" tires due to their very thin profile but on Century events it's always the riders that insist on having ultralight tubes and tires that are on the roadside changing a flat.

Yeah, most of them can kick my butt on the road but I just smile and ask if they need anything as I pass them.

Give the Conti Ultra Gators a try.