Originally Posted by A.Winthrop

Hi,
.
While we're on the subject of Clement tubulars, I've a
question about deterioration. I've got a set on a '72
Schwinn Paramount P13 (Clement Criterium Seta Extra) that
were probably mounted by my father-in-law in the '70s or
maybe in the early '90s just before giving the bike to me.
They have no tread wear as the bike had been unridden until
I got it and I ride it rarely because it is a bit too small.
.
Over the years, some of the outer-layer side-wall material
(silk?) has separated and come unstuck. It's just a few bits
and pieces here and there on both tires. Both tires hold
air and I've ridden them this way without a problem. But
are they still safe to ride in this condition?
.
I ride the bike so rarely that I hate to change them out
for a new pair if the same fate awaits them. I know I should
at least reglue them after all these years but I have put
that off too for the same reason and also because when I do
ride them, I'm careful not to stress them in ways (eg.
cornering hard and fast) that would risk roll-off.
.
So that's it. Are they safe to ride with those bits of
material fraying out from the sides?
.
PS - I'm not interested in selling this bike and\or my
Clements so please no PMs on that subject. Thanks.
.