Panaracer Ruffy Tuffy

Price Paid:  $35.00 at Jenson

Favorite Ride:
roads, asphalt or dirt

Bike Setup:
Cannondale cyclocross w/ Cane Creek Strados wheelset

Summary:
I was incredibly impressed with the Ruffy Tuffys when I first rode them. Great cornering, light feel, and nice grip of the road surface. I felt I had found the perfect tire for my type of riding and all was copacetic for the first 1000 miles. But in the past month, without changing the type or locations of my rides, I have had a string of punctures that's caused me to throw up my arms and give up. In the past three weeks I've had at least a dozen flats. Admittedly, there were a couple that would have flatted any tire, but the others leave me scratching my head. As much as I love their performance, I'm tired of being seen with my bike upside down on the side of the road. I've decided to give up on the Ruffy Tuffys.

Strengths:
Grippy, relatively light.

Weaknesses:
Flats...too many of them.

Similar Products Used:
Conti Contact, Vittoria Randonneur Pro

Price Paid:  $25.00 at Rivendell

Bike Setup:
Panasonic track frame; mavic CXP22 rims; IRO/Formula hubs.

Summary:
I've used these (700/28) on my fixed commuter/century/all-round ride for 1 year now, and they've been great. They run fast and smooth. Not a flat yet.

Strengths:
Round profile, low resistance with good tire size/pressure. Good classic looking tire.

Weaknesses:
After 1 year, the tire seems to be separating at the edges of the tread squares (in continuous lines around tire). Hasn't caused a problem yet, but I'm kind of waiting for a blowout...

Similar Products Used:
Panaracer TG

Price Paid:  $45.00 at Rivendell

Summary:
These tires are fantastic. 700c x 28mm, very round profile, kevlar bead, kevlar belt, thick tread for long wear and puncture resistance. They stick tight to the road, especially in corners, where the round profile lets you smoothly lean way over with confidence. Ruffy Tuffys are made for Rivendell by Panaracer, and are of excellent quality. They're perfect for Just Riding Around, training, commuting, touring, tandems and anything else. I've become a better rider because of these tires. How many part upgrades can you honestly say that about?

Strengths:
Great cornering ability.
Kevlar belt and thick tread.
Perfect width: fast, smooth-rolling and shock absorbent.
Just right in every way.

Weaknesses:
None found yet... except I wish they also made a 26" version!