After taking into account the advice from folks here I've decided to give Schwalbe Marathon a go. They sound bomb proof. I average 1 puncture every 20km or so at the moment. Apparently there are two different marathon tires, Original GreenGuard and Marathon Plus. I found that greenguard is from recycled material but what about real life performance? Has anyone had both tires? Which one is better/more puncture resistant? I'm not after the speed, just to minimize puncture. LBS doesn't have any so I have to mail order, just want to get the right ones.

Thank in advance!

I only have experience with the SMP (blue). I have two bikes with them on them - the first bike has a bit over 8,000 miles with SMP tires - 700c28s, no flats. The rear tire on this is well worn, with no tread left, but the blue is not really showing through yet.

The second bike has 4,000 miles on it, with 700c25 tires, also no flats. Some noticeable wear on the rear tire, front looks like new.

The one problem with these tires is that they wear so slowly, it is difficult to get a comparative data set.

Yea I see what you mean...I've heard they last forever too. The SMP is very reputable and I think the green stuff is a new product. As per their catalog blue may be more puncture resistant. Does any have any experience with new greenguard ones? Just want to get an idea of the difference.

A flat every 20km? Are you riding through a junkyard or what? I don't think I would keep cycling in that environment, that'd be more than a flat a day for me.

Sorry, can't help you on tire choice though. Almost no road hazards here, I can ride the cheapest tires around and flat maybe once a year (4500km or so)

Yeah, it's just a strip of poorly maintained road that I have to use. I know the feeling, puncture, for me, may be the single most deterrent of cycling!