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^^^Sticky situation. So much for tubulars, eh? Reminds me of that story by LeMond. Forget where, but he mentioned of a steep and long descent where the organizer decided to have the pace motorcycle slow everyone down. Not the best idea. There were vast amount of flats and crashes.
Reason being the incredible amount of heat generated from OVER braking, glue meltdown, tubulars squirming to a point where the valves were shearing.
The only reason I still ride with tubulars is nostalgia. The $200 a pop crowd are goofy. However I do appreciate a mid level high TPI tubular for the ride. For a decent buy ($30) and nice tire, the Challenge Criterium works for me. For the super budget, the Vittoria Rally's are not worth it. Lower quality than in the past.
The bike tire technology today is excellent, especially clinchers. I'm really impressed with the Tufo concept. As the tubular / clincher is inflated, the entire assembly elevates off of the inner rim and just uses the rims bead hook. Very cool. The ride difference is immediately noticed and its a fast roller. The down side is not the best for wet. I'm not that confident with them in wet. Forget about repairing. One is supposed to carry a sealant OR install sealant before use (weight hinder). I've run over some fairly nasty crap and even take the occasional gravel route with them. No problem.
Curt-----The leather strap is a chain guard. Its attached and moves with the front rod type derailleur (some call it a suicide shifter).
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