I intended to upgrade at the point-of-purchase. When I ordered the bike, the LBS told me that they would just charge me the difference, at their cost, to go with the Contis. But when I picked up the bike they said that they don't carry Hutchinson, so I'd have to pay full price outright for the Contis (!) Needless to say, I took the bike as is.


The bike has not seen pavement yet (only the roller of my trainer). My concern is that others who have these tires have said they are squirrelly (sp?) in the wet, which it certainly is hereabouts this time of year. I've also been told that the Fusions aren't very flat-resistant, and there's a lot of crap on the roads this time of year here. I've heard nothing but raves about the 4000s, including that grip-wise, they're as good as any in the wet, plus very flat-resistant, and that they roll well (lower resistance).


If it was the 'dry time' here, I'd just ride the Fusions until worn out, but it isn't, and the last thing I want is to dump the new bike on the pavement.


Any opinions on this? (as if I'd have to ask for any on this forum... )