Is it *dangerous* to use CX tubulars on fast and rough mtb trails?
11-20-13, 12:38 PM
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Is it *dangerous* to use CX tubulars on fast and rough mtb trails?
I do not own an MTB and have been using my CX bike for trail riding. Most trails in my area are hard pack with some roots and a few rock gardens.
- I have been running 60psi on 700x33 clinchers with no flats on MTB trails.
- I run 45 psi during cx races with no issues.
- I dismount and run the big rock gardens when riding mtb trails.
- I tried riding at 45psi on the mtb trails and although it felt 1000000 times more awesome I got a pinch flat.
I can switch to a tubular setup for under $500 which would be great for racing but I am not sure how it would hold up to riding my local mtb trails. There are very fast downhill rutted sections that I fear could roll a tubular off the rim but I have never used tubulars before so I need your opinions. Can I use 700x33 tubulars at 40psi to cure my pinch flats while trail riding or is that dangerous?
- I have been running 60psi on 700x33 clinchers with no flats on MTB trails.
- I run 45 psi during cx races with no issues.
- I dismount and run the big rock gardens when riding mtb trails.
- I tried riding at 45psi on the mtb trails and although it felt 1000000 times more awesome I got a pinch flat.
I can switch to a tubular setup for under $500 which would be great for racing but I am not sure how it would hold up to riding my local mtb trails. There are very fast downhill rutted sections that I fear could roll a tubular off the rim but I have never used tubulars before so I need your opinions. Can I use 700x33 tubulars at 40psi to cure my pinch flats while trail riding or is that dangerous?
11-20-13, 01:22 PM
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One of the issues with tubulars is the stability of the glue as the rims heat-up from prolonged braking. That may not be an issue unless you have routes with long hills.
Beyond that, It's mostly an issue of rider skill.
I would try a clincher 700x35 or 38 (if it will fit) before spending money on new rims and tires.
Beyond that, It's mostly an issue of rider skill.
I would try a clincher 700x35 or 38 (if it will fit) before spending money on new rims and tires.
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Last edited by Barrettscv; 11-20-13 at 01:50 PM.
11-20-13, 01:22 PM
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IDK, blind guess not practical, get a helmet cam , let's see the route ..
wear more Protective gear for when you Do go Down.
wear more Protective gear for when you Do go Down.
11-27-13, 06:19 PM
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I'd say you are no more likely to roll a tubular than you would be in a race, but who wants to mess with a punctured cross tubular in the middle of the woods?
Either spend that $500 on a cheap mountain bike or run higher pressure/bigger tires.
Tubulars are awesome for racing though, and IMO that is reason enough to make the switch.
Either spend that $500 on a cheap mountain bike or run higher pressure/bigger tires.
Tubulars are awesome for racing though, and IMO that is reason enough to make the switch.
11-30-13, 09:54 PM
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Another option to consider is converting your wheelset to tubeless, which would allow you to run lower pressure and you could carry a tube with you incase you burp or flat.
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