Can You Recommend a 650 x 23 Durable, Lightweight Bicycle Tire?

Question

I recently purchased a high-racer recumbent bicycle called the Bacchetta Strada. I love the bike except for one thing: I have had so many flats I've lost count. The tires are thin (650 x 23), so I expected more flats than usual--but this is ridiculous.

Can anyone recommend a reasonably light, but tougher tire that is 650 x 23? Ideally, you have had first-hand experience with this tire.

Thank you!
D

Answer 1

Schwalbe Stelvios (kevlar belted) and Kenda Koncepts have both worked worked fine for me on my Strada.

Make sure you have enough pressure in the tires. To help prevent pinch flats, I keep the pressure at 100-120 psi.

One difference on the recumbent is that you can't "unweight" the tires when you go over obstacles. The tires and wheels take the brunt of everything you hit.

Answer 2

No, no more than max. I would like to know what size tubes you are using. If you use 18-23, try 23-28 that will have a little bit more rubber. And you don't say what tires you use either, I can't remember when was the last time I saw a road tire going at 90 PSI. In any case if the road are really that bad, you should consider 700cx25 or 28. And it is possible to patch snakebite flats.

Answer 3

Good answers so far, I might add that if you are getting flat after flat, they could all be caused by the same problem, in addition to underinflation as mentioned above, you could have a peice of glass in your tire, that will eventually puncture every tube you put in. Or a spoke could have slightly poked thru the rim tape and be pinching the tube. Next time you get a flat, take the tire compleatly off and CAREFULLY run your finger through the inside of the tire to look for anything that might be lodged in there, then check your rim tape for wear and replace if needed.

Answer 4

I recommend Continental Gator Skins, They are durable, Kevlar belts, low rolling resistance.
If you are having that many flats, you may make sure that your tires are properly inflated before every ride.
Most common cause of flats on road bikes is a pinch flat due to under-inflation.
Buy a good floor pump with an accurate gage on it and use it.