Vittoria Zaffiro tires

[MJR]

My new road bike has arrived with Vittoria Zaffiro, 26tpi, 700x23 clinchers.

I am wondering about the quality of these 26tpi tires ($16 street), and
whether or not I should swap them out now, even though they are new, or wait
until they wear out or otherwise become unserviceable?

My riding is for general fitness and/or weekend club rides, B rider on the
heavy side of the line......actually, quite a ways from the line, I suppose.

Any thoughts?

[David L. Johnson]

Post by MJR
My new road bike has arrived with Vittoria Zaffiro, 26tpi, 700x23 clinchers.
I am wondering about the quality of these 26tpi tires ($16 street), and
whether or not I should swap them out now, even though they are new, or wait
until they wear out or otherwise become unserviceable?

I've never ridden them, but 26tpi? That would have to have huge rolling
resistance. When I switched to a better tire (Avocet) from cheapo
Vittorias, I really noticed the difference.

Don't believe the BS about the aramid in the tread preventing punctures,
either.

I would get a decent tire, after you've ridden on these enough to get the
feel of the bike. Then decide whether or not the better tire is worth it.
Get something with a high tpi count, very flexible sidewalls (sidewall
rigidity is the main source of rolling resistance), and thin rubber layer,
and you will notice the difference. If you can't find Avocets, there are
some nice Ritchey slicks out there.