New tires installed - Conti Gatorskin 700 x 25. Are these delicate tires? Reason that I ask is that apparently I have already had a pinch flat. I had a great ride but close to home, I went over a curb because the school lot that I went through had barricades blocking the driveways.

Not all that delicate, but that said, I would not jump a curb with a narrow road tire, either.

Gatorskins are very tough. I've bee told pinch flats are more common when the tubes are under inflated. I don't think tires factor into pinch flats.

I ride on Gatorskin 700x25 tires. I have had a pinch flat or two. Tire pressure is important and I try to keep them at 110 PSI. The few flats I have are usually from fine wire piercing the tire and getting to the tube.

I always carry a pump with me when I ride (and a spare inner tube). 700x25 tires should be able to handle a pretty good amount of bumps without too much trouble. Regarding pinch flats, however, two factors produce the highest number of them... under-inflation and heavy riders. I am about 150 to 155 pounds. I don't have a problem. I have ridden with people who tip the scales at 200 pounds and they are far more likely to get pinch flats than me.

Not generally. Depends on brand model and construction and where you ride. Punctures will always happen.

Do Gatorskins run small like Conti GP 4 Seasons? That could make a big difference. My GP 4 Seasons 700x28 look like 700x25 and I wouldn't want to go smaller.

Maybe the tires are too small for your rims? If memory serves, your bike originally had 35 mm tires. That is a big jump, especially if the Gatorskins run small.

Yes the bike had 35mm tires, however I had them installed by the LBS. I went in for 25mm Bontrager AW1 tires but the tech mentioned that the Conti are better, lighter, and stronger. I hope that the LBS knew what they were doing?! I specifically asked if the tires can go on the rims. The rims are Bontrager Camino 32-hole.

I am around 155 LBS as well, not a heavy rider. Must have been under inflation. 8-) Thanks!!

You should check tire pressure regularly, like every couple of days. Skinny road tires have less air volume.

I tried Bontrager AW+ 700x25 a few years ago. Hated them. Scary in wet and had two flats in short order. Retired them early.

How about using a preventive tire sealer, such Conti's Revosealant to prevent flats? Also there is a tube called "FLAT ATTACK", which is pre-filled with Flat Attack sealant.

Amazon.com : Continental Conti Revo Sealant for Puncture : Cycling Equipment : Sports & Outdoors

Amazon.com : Flat Attack Freedom Pre-Injected Bicycle Tube : Bike Tubes : Sports & Outdoors

Hitting certain obstacles will produce pinch flats, even with a properly inflated tire. Speed has much to do with it, as well as how sharp the obstacle is.

So lift your wheel or otherwise avoid such bumps. Larger volumer tires are more tolerant, but by no means immune to pinch flats

Many brands offer anti-pinch flat tires. These are different from puncture-proof tires, so be sure to get these if you pinch more than puncture.

conti gators are great tough tire so your lbs didn't steer you wrong. on that thin of a tire just be careful to watch for sand or loose gravel if they're slicks.

Why not check them every time you ride? I check before every ride and every tire I own always needs a little air.

Not a bad idea.

Made for speed only. I replaced the 700x25c tires on my Fuji Ace with 700x35 tires since I am a big guy tired of pinch flats and my frame had the room. Still way skinnier than the 26X1.95 tires on my MTB..............

Will do! Thanks!

700 x 35 were sluggish and heavy feeling.

I know you changed over after my report of going from Bontrager 700x35s to Vittoria 700x25s. Did it change your ride as well as it did mine? For me it will be worth it to treat them gently. The Bontragers were boat anchors

Steve - your post swayed my decision. I went with Conti Gatorskins, this is what the local LBS carries besides the Bontrager AW1. There is a tremendous difference in the ride! Feels like the 7.3 is a different bike. I am able to pedal easier, ride longer distances, and the bike feels lighter.

[MENTION=150537]Johnny N[/MENTION]ice looking bike! I can understand why you went with 700 x 35 tires.

My bike lost 2lbs from the change and feels different like yours. Makes me wonder if many people unhappy with their hybrids just have sluggish tires on them.

That could be. Also when you get the wrong type of bike, i.e, mountain style for using on pavement or vice versa - I think that takes the enjoyment also.