New wheels/tyres

Mon, 12/05/2008 - 10:31am
John Dingle
New wheels/tyres

Hi all

I'm finally thinking of upgrading the wheel and tyre set that my (9 speed) bike came with - i.e. basic Shimano wheels and Vittoria tyres - and would appreciate some advice/recommendations...

The budget will hopefully be in the region of £200 - £250. I've been leaning towards some Fulcrum 5's with some sort of Continental tyre but I'll happily lean away again if someone steers me in a better direction or says that I'd need to spend a bit more to make it worthwhile upgrading from what I've already got.

Thanks!

John


Mon, 12/05/2008 - 11:47pm #1
Nick Hales
nhales's picture

It depends to some extent what kind of racing you do - how long, how hilly, and how competitive? This changes the relative importance of comfort weight and speed.

I do the long stuff and train and race on the same bike and swear by Continental GP4000s, 23mm. They seem good in all weather and are comfortable enough but most importantly they have a puncture resistant band and kevlar bead (i.e. they are foldable). This means they get fewer punctures and when they do they are quick to change. Ribble had a good deal on them a while back, but the RRP is getting on for £60 a pair.


Tue, 13/05/2008 - 12:55pm #2
John Dingle

I'm just starting out so will be doing shorter races this year but will also be training and racing on the same bike.

Thanks for your comments on the GP4000s, I was looking at those and they've got a good deal on wiggle at the moment (tyres and tubes for under £50).

Cheers

John