All the tubulars I mount get a bit of inflation prior to mounting. Not sure if Boots taught me this, but I would think so as I have been doing it for as long as I can remember. I find that with slight inflation it allows one to have a better grip on the tire when working it around the rim and there is less chance of getting any glue on the side wall of the tire. Once the tire is on then center it on the rim and it is ready for inflation. I am sure there are some folks out there mount their tires without air in them and it works for them. Neither way I believe is right or wrong, just what you are comfortable with.
Speaking of comfortable, think I will grab a beer, so what if it is only 9:00 in the morning-it's raining out, sit back and watch the tour. Looking forward to Monday's stage as well as Thrusday's.
Mark, will take a tubular over a clincher any day, Poore
Wild, Wet and Wonderful Slatyfork, WV