Well at least I did upgrade the tires. I have on them Continental gator skins and just love them. Very smooth ride, can feel the road well. I am actually quite happy with the way my bike is performing. However as I am starting to do longer trips, and the burning pain sets in, well naturaly one thinks there has got to be a better way! I'll look for some aluminum wheels. Would like to keep my Gator skins so will look for 27 x 1 1/4. thank you what an awesome site!