Originally Posted by
seedsbelize
I'm finding that, with higher pressures (110) the tire (almost) skates over the bumps in the chipseal. Higher than that might be better, but the top rating of the tire is 110. I'm not seeing a lot of difference at 90. But it's a 22mm tire. The 25mm at 90 feels squishy, and I have never enjoyed that sensation. On a side note, I forgot to check the front tire of my town bike, yesterday, and rode it at around 25 psi. A lovely ride. Another 25mm tire. Even my town bike is a road bike, with upright bars.
Perhaps this is just a feeling I'll have to adapt to. It's just a little disconcerting, always feeling like the back tire is going to bottom out and ding/dent the rim - or worse. Anyway, today I decided to get in one last run before the forecast turns again to rain (and I head out of town Monday); wanted to get a feel for the brakes after I swapped out the CLB alloy housings for standard grey Campy offerings instead. The good news is the braking has a much more direct feel. I gave the tires 105psi and although I noticed no issues on the front (except I could visibly see the deflection of the sidewalls when standing up and putting weight on the front wheel - and the funny creaky sound which is still there when I do the same) the rear did feel like it wanted to bottom out whenever I went over a root bump or crack.
Still and all, the experience of riding this bike is awesome, and some of that comes from the tubular wheelset, for sure. For one thing, the wheels being lighter, they spin up quickly - and take less effort to do so. They also keep going with less effort. The next true test will be to take them up a long, long climb and see how they feel climbing while seated - I already know what it feels like standing up and making an effort.
So, I'm not giving up on them because I'm seeing the beneficial side already; just wish I'd gotten the tires I ordered and didn't have to be concerned currently about being careful with lower-than-used-to pressures.
From today's ride:
DD