Hello. I have put about 1500 miles on my new Specialized Tarmac Pro in the 8 weeks since I bought it and am loving the bike. I was getting rough shifting so I took it in to my LBS over the weekend and after checking everything they checked the chain and it was stretched and needed to be replaced! LBS said that depending on my riding style that was not unreasonable.

So, now on to the tires. The bike came with Specialized S-Works Mondo tires which I really like. Since I had worn the chain out I began examining my tires. The front looks fine but the rear has the following issues:

* The center of the tire has a flat spot (all the way around) about 1/4 to 3/8" (front has none)
* There are 2-3 really flat areas on the tire (almost looks like where I skidded)
* There are dozens of small cuts (1/16 to 1/8")

I am doing lots of competive, higher speed group riding now and am concerned that I may either lose traction in a turn or have a blowout.

Is my tire OK or should I replace it?

Thanks
Adam

I'm no racer but I would think the more intense your riding the more vigilant you should be with your gear.

To minimize expense, why not toss the rear tire (or move to a beater bike), rotate front to back, and buy a new tire (preferrably same type or better) for the front.

You probably don't want to push the envelope as much as you are currently, imho. If it was one of those three signs, I'd say maybe get a bit more use, but all three = time to change in my book.

If you're worried about it, replace it. Some folks move the front tire to the back and then replace the front tire.

How do those Mondo's handle? I'm getting ready to replace the tires on my Allez Sport.

...which is exactly what pgoat suggested. D'oh.

Re the handling - great. I really like the tires and am impressed with the handling and agility. You can try them and if you don't like them you can return them for a refund (per specialized tires brochure).

I think you could have adjusted the derailluer instead of buying a new chain, I have over 7000 miles on my dura ace 9 speed chain, It still works fine.

Thanks... they're probably more than I need, but tires are important.

Smoothie104 has got a point, though. 1500 miles on a chain isn't all that much. Good for you on the mileage (and the bike too), but a chain should be able to handle more than that. Maybe I should stop at the LBS tonight on the way home for a chain check. Hmm... sounds like fun.

...assuming it's kept reasonably clean and lubricated.

Re the chain - wiped down after every ride and cleaned/lube every week. It was 1/8"+ longer than the new chain (we laid them out).

sure, It's going to stretch a little. but it doesnt mean that it wont work just fine if the RD is adjusted properly