L'Eroica Dreams

Forgive my hacked Italian, but bicyclists will understand the question. As a novice rider, I saved my quarters until I could purchase a set of tubular wheels built on Campy hubs. I don’t recall the rim brand, but the material was aluminum before anodization and hardening were available. The spokes were Trois Etoilles, 3 cross on 36-hole Campy low flange hubs. I still have the hubs, which are the foundation for my current tubular wheels.

I had all but given up on sew-ups, as well called them. I found myself replacing tires too frequently for the little advantage they gave me other than bragging rights as a retro bike guy. Of course, I claimed to love the ride and there is a difference between good tubulars and ordinary or even expensive clinchers. But, is it enough for the hassle?

Then, along came L’Eroica and the tension between tradition and convenience, history and practicality. And, cost. I’m convinced that to ride tubulars again, I need new wheels. The old ones just cannot come back to true and may not be suitable for what I am beginning to realize is more than just a few quaint roads through the Tuscan countryside. These strade bianchi are a mix of smooth, fine gravel and deeply rutted, rocky paths. In the course of the 205K course, which I have convinced myself it is necessary to ride, at least half is on the old roads.

Into this mix, I’ve read that a good tubular, which is something I’ve never owned, that is made for these kinds of roads is likely to be more durable, more comfortable and a better ride. Can it be so? Or, am I just trying to convince myself that a truly “heroic” ride must be on the traditional tires?

I guess it’s time to have some lunch and ponder the question. If you are reading this and holding an opinion about whether or not I should ride on the sew-ups, do tell.