Some brands of tubulars have the base tape attached so tenaciuosly that it is almost impossible to remove without tearing it. Vittoria Rallys are like this (but at $15 a tire why bother ...unless you are cheap like me).
In any case I try to pry an edge of the tape loose, often using a blunt screwdriver, then work about six inches of one side loose, finally pulling the whole six inch section free. I have resorting to pliers on occaision although this increases the likelyhood of ripping the tape. Not a fun job.
Or you can just start using Tufo tubulars. IMHO they almost never flat. You cannot repair them the traditional way but rather you must squirt some of their proprietary goo in through the valve stem and you are good to go another year. These tires are amazingly tough.
Paul Raley I think that I have repaired my last tubular in Leonardtown MD
Roadgiant@cs.com wrote:
>Hi all,
> I've managed to suffer six flats in the last five rides each time
>removing a tiny thorn that looks like a miniature roofing nail. Each tire has been
>brand new and my question for the list is: How does one remove the base tape
>on tubulars so that one can begin the futile task of patching and
>re-stitching? It will make me feel like I took action over these thorns if I can make a
>stab, take a shot, cut through this tubular tire repair issue.
> Thanks in advance.
> (Old tubulars make fun dog toys! They grab on and you can spin them
>around! I have six available for immediate sale! Delight your canines!)
>
>
> Scott Smith
> The peaceful village of Van Nuys, Ca-lee-fornia!
>
>
>_______________________________________________
>
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