+1 on not going too skinny.

There was just a big discussion about rolling resistance vs. tire width and an overwhelming amount of evidence and articles by respected authorities showed that a rider gains little or nothing by going to very narrow tires. The difference in rolling resistance between 23mm, 25mm and 28mm tires of the same make and model is negligible. There is a small weight penalty but the trade off is a less harsh ride, more secure cornering, and better handling on less than ideal surfaces. I rode 23mm tires on my road bike last summer and am switching back to 25mms which I find more comfortable and less "squirrely". The 23s didn't gain me a thing and the added security of a slightly wider tire gives me the confidence to push myself and my bike even harder. My distance/light touring bike is getting 28mms (up from 25mm last year). Even the pros have moved away from the super thin <20mm tires of years past to 23mm and even 25mm for many road events.

Here is the discussion I mentioned:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ght=tire+width

Puncture resistant and fast is a difficult combination to come by. I'm riding Specialized All Condition Armadillo Elites and they are very puncture resistant and respectably fast. Since I ride a lot of solo longer distance rides out in the boonies, the peace of mind of the puncture resistance takes priority for me over speed.