I just finished my commuter/cross bike and put Vittoria Randonneur Cross tires on. Just this morning I took it out for a 16 mile ride that consisted of road, fire road and mountain terrain. This tires are awesome as far as versatility goes, the had no problems in any of the terrain. Now they are not as ggod as a mountain tire but not once did I feel like the tire was not doing its job in the dirt, keep in mind that I am running 60psi in these not 30 -35 like I would on my mountain bike. I cant speak for the flat protection but as far as performance goes I would give it an A+.