Morning Folks,
I'm firmly in the 'Tubular Camp' and have been for 35 yrs. In all of those years, I have had one flat with a tubular and two flats on clinchers (didn't start riding on clinchers until 1980).
I think the tubular experience is a necessary one if you want to ride a classic lightweight racing bike. I know there are discussions about trying to duplicate the original riding experience as much as possible, and riding tubulars is one way of attempting to recreate that experience. Tubular tires are part of what was the "experience" way back when, so why not put them on your classic racer?
I do feel a difference when I ride on tubulars, but I don't know if it's subjective or objective (maybe a bit of both?). I also see (visually) a difference when I look at a built up classic lightweight.
For those of you who have not tried tubulars, do it! They are much more durable than many folks might have you think. Besides, the gluing is also part of what the experience was as well!!
My $0.02........
Chuck Brooks
Malta, NY