The term "tubular tire" may conjure up images of race-spec or "decisive battle" gear. Since they require gluing or taping, many people likely find them a bit daunting.
While it is true that they aren't often used for everyday riding, the simple rim structure allows for lighter wheels, and the benefits include a supple ride quality, high performance, and a lower risk of pinch flats.
Perhaps you have an old road racer that your father used to ride. While switching the wheels to clinchers during an overhaul is certainly an option, if the wheels are in good condition, I highly recommend trying out tubulars. To get started, take a look at the affordable and highly recommended Challenge Vulcano. It has been out of stock for a long time, but it is finally back in stock.
Challenge “Vulcano(28″-23mm)” ¥3,310
Challenge is well known for their Paris-Roubaix and Eroica tires, and this one features a similar pattern, offering the supple ride unique to Challenge at an affordable price. Please give it a try.
Of course, we also have various tires that are strictly for "decisive battles."
In cyclocross especially, the key is how much you can lower the tire pressure. Doing so allows the tire to deform flexibly and grip the terrain. Cyclocross tires are in peak season right now. When it comes to race-day tires, the handmade Dutch tires from "Dugast" are the gold standard.
Dugast “Rhino Cotton(32mm,33mm)” ¥14,700
This tread pattern excels in muddy conditions. You won't have to worry even if it rains. It clears mud effectively and is designed to minimize rolling resistance as much as possible.
Dugast “Pipistrello(32mm,33mm)” ¥13,650
The newly arrived Pipistrello is a tire geared toward high-speed courses that feature grass or sand.
We also recommend this for those who don't race but use their CX bikes to travel to various places. It has a diamond pattern that doesn't feel like it has much resistance even on paved roads.
Dugast “Small Bird(32mm,33mm)” ¥13,650
This is the also newly arrived Small Bird. It is a mix between Dugast's most standard model, the Typhoon, and the Rhino mentioned earlier. It is great in mud and can be used for a wide range of conditions. By the way, Gishi-kun and I are using this tire for our races this season. We have only used it at Makino so far, but it seems surprisingly versatile, so I highly recommend it.
Of course, you can leave the gluing to us.
Thanks to everyone, we currently have five wheels in the shop for our "CX Special Glue" service (¥2,500/1 wheel).
Please note that the special gluing process takes at least 5 to 6 days, but feel free to consult with us.