dbmcclus

My Trek Pilot 2.1 is 8 years old and still has the original Bontreger Race Lite tires. Have about 3K miles on them with most all of my riding on a 100 mile rails-to-trails that is asphalt and then concrete. I have only had one flat but since these tires are pretty old, I am looking to replace them and the tubes.

Can someone suggest a good puncture-resistant tire for a casual rider? Maybe I need to just go back with the same? My budget is around $150.00 or less for a pair of tires.

Thanks

Lanceoldstrong

That is a healthy budget. Good for you for not going cheap. You get what you pay for.

I suggest the much acclaimed Continental GP4000 tire. You can get 2 of these great tires and 2 tubes with your budget.
They roll fast with a supple feel, good handling and very good puncture resistance.
I have been using them for years of hard riding on good pavement, terrible pavement, dirt and gravel.
Try a pair, you will be hooked.

SkyDog75

$150 is more than enough to buy decent tires, especially for casual riders.

As mentioned above, Continental GP4000's are great tires. They have quite a following. I like the Vittoria Rubino Pro slicks I'm currently riding.

You mentioned extra puncture resistance. I'm not sure it's necessary given your flat history on rails-to-trails paths, but if you want to go that route, there are some tried-and-true options. Keep in mind that extra puncture resistance typically comes at the expense of weight and performance. Continental Gatorskins are a common option. I haven't personally tried those, but I've been happy with Panaracer T-Serv tires.

Igualmente

Something else you may want to look at is increasing tire size for greater resistance to flats and more comfort. As I understand it, the Pilot was capable of larger tire sizes (but I have no personal experience with this). You'll need to confirm that the frame and brakes have clearance and that the rims are wide enough. For example, if your rims have an interior width of 15 to 19 mm, and you have frame and brake clearance, you could upsize to 28mm tires without much added weight and with little or no rolling resistance penalty. If you are not racing, you probably wont care about any aerodynamic penalty from the slightly larger tire. And using a lower pressure, you'll get better comfort without increasing risk of flats.

Retro Grouch 

"8 years old, 3,000 miles and only 1 flat." What are you hoping to gain by switching tire brands?

dbmcclus

Thanks to everyone for your input on new tires for my Trek. I have ordered a set of Continental GP 4000S-II. It seems they do have great reviews. Retro: You make a great point as why change brands when mine are working fine. Guess I will just make a change and see, although it will be hard to do better than my originals.