I've also got a mid-1990s Mongoose IBOC converted to a commuter. Rather than brands, I looked for a 26 x 1.5 street tire that was puncture resistant. The nearby REI had three brands, Continental, Michelien (SP?), and Serfas. I bought the Serfas' since they were $24/ea (vs $30 for the others). The tread looks a little weird (some call it a 'suction cup' pattern), but I've got about 500 miles on them had no problems, including no flats (I'm blessed with riding on some pretty clean streets). They also come in a 2.0 size if you ride on crappy pavement and/or want a more 'plush' ride.