After Oldyelers comment about base tape showing and getting sorta hairy, I checked the tires again and lo and behold tape was showing just above the rim edge. Yikes said I and proceded to let the air out and check again. Not really a clincher rim, straight sides. The tire did have tape on the sides just above the bead. Why I don't know. The tires are not tubular anyway. After much surfing the pros and cons of tubulars, I understand the reasoning for traditionists to prefer tubulars. For once in a while riders, clinchers are fine!!!!
Thanks again guys.