Originally Posted by
tFUnK
I don't doubt this. Certain would explain my lack of flats in recent years. However, there is something to be said about the peace of mind offered by tire liners, especially for commuting/touring applications. Would have to do some math to see whether regular tires + liners weigh more or less than tires with heavy duty built-in flat protection.
My flats have gone down as well and I use lighter weight tires with little problems, but I don't commute on real trashy streets like NYC or Boston or LA, etc. if I did commutes in one of those areas I would find the best flat resistant tire I could. The thing about commuting you don't want to be late to work due to flats because you may get fired or told to drive a car in and not use the bike ever again. For me I run my own business so I can't fire myself! But for most people that isn't the case, they have a boss they have to make happy.
I think the toughest tire for most commuters and still be fairly light with good comfort is the new Specialized Armadillo Elite, it beats the Conti Gatorskin and the Bontrager Hardcase; see this for more info:
Reviewed: All-new Specialized All Condition Armadillo Elite - VeloNews.com And for those that want a vitally undestructable tire the Schawlbe Marathon is the tire to go with.