Chapter 3: inspection, adjustment, and lubrication
Tubular tires, also called sew-ups, are a type of racing tire where the outer casing of the tire is fully enclosed (usually sewn, but sometimes glued) around the inner tube. The tire assembly is then glued onto a rim with a special shape that fits the tire, also referred to as a tubular or sew-up rim.
A tubular rim uses tubular type tires (only). Do not ride these wheels without properly installing the tubular tires. Tubular tires require regular maintenance and inspection for attachment to the rim. Failure to properly fasten, inspect, and maintain the tires may cause the tire to separate from the rim causing a loss of control resulting in injury.
Warning—Never ride a bicycle with an improperly mounted tubular tire. A tubular tire that is not properly mounted can come off the rim, causing you to lose control, resulting in severe injury or death. Follow these instructions to properly mount the tire, or take your bicycle to your dealer for service.
Before each use, inflate the tubular tire to the pressure recommended on the tire label. Also inspect the tire for any cuts or abrasions to the tubular casing, and for any cuts or fraying in the base tape.
Warning—Do not ride a tubular tire that has damaged base tape. A tubular tire with damaged base tape may separate from the base tape, allowing the tire to come off the rim, causing you to lose control and fall. Replace a tire with damaged base tape before riding the bicycle.
After use, inspect tubular tires for any damage. Remove any debris such as metal, glass, small stones, or anything stuck in the tread. Clean tires with a mild, soapy solution. Do not use cleaning products containing hydrocarbons, dilutants, or corrosives.
Store tubular tires in a dry place away from light, and maintain the tire air pressure at 70-90 psi (5-6 bar).
If you have a sew-up tire that is leaking air, you can choose between repairing the punctured inner tube or replacing the entire tire.
Repairing a punctured inner tube in a sew-up takes considerable time and skill. First, you must remove the tire from the rim. Then you must locate the puncture. When the location of the leak is identified, the you must unstitch the tire, patch the tube, and then re-stitch the casing. Finally, you must glue the tire back onto the rim.
If you unstitch the wrong place on the casing and cannot reach the puncture, you must unstitch the casing in another location. Afterward, all stitching must be strong and straight or the stitching could rip, causing the tire to blow out. If the stitching is not straight, the tire could 'squirm' when you ride it, or could wear prematurely.
If you do not have the ability and experience to correctly repair a punctured sew-up, consult your dealer about professional repair services, or replace the tire.
Follow the Sew-up Tire Installation instructions.