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How did I do this to my tyre?

Hello all

I have a query regarding some strange tyre wear. The wheels are 38mm carbon clinchers, the ebay type, which I have no issues with at all. I chose Schwalbe Ultremo ZX as these get good reviews, are fairly light, and look pretty good too. After about 2 months of use, I managed to puncture and split one of the tyres, leaving it useless. So I bought another. This was about 4 weeks ago now.

Now, about 2 weeks ago I had a small accident and in doing so, locked the back wheel when braking (not that it helped - still ended in a ditch! - I was ok...). Checked the tyre as I had thought perhaps it might have flat spotted but all looked OK.

I was out riding on Friday and pulled over, and happened to notice the attached image had happened. I couldn't feel it but it's obviously quite bad!

Now I don't know how this could have happened but I did have a few ideas. Firstly I thought it could have been from over inflation. I disregarded this as I only inflate to 105psi and the tyres can take 140.
Secondly I thought perhaps I went down a pothole (of which there are plenty in sussex) and in doing so, caused it to 'blow out' and it stretched the tyre.
My last idea was that I DID flat spot the tyre two weeks ago, and it has finally had some outcome.

Does anyone know the definitive answer? As these are £30 a pop, I'd love to claim one off the council or talk to Schwalbe if this is a manufacturing fault. I guess I am just being tight.

Thanks for any advice.

http://www4.picturepush.com/photo/a/13569547/640/bike/543798-10151831400...

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5 comments

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700c | 10 years ago
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Blimey! That's one hell of a flat spot. And yes, caused by skidding no doubt

If your riding is on fairly rough roads, I'd be tempted to go for training rubber then swap out for the schwalbe's for Sunday best.

Bontrager hardcase is really smooth rolling and durable, cheap. these would be my recommendation.

Avatar
faz. | 10 years ago
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Ah right, appreciate the replies all. I've already 'invested' in my 4th and 5th tyre in 5 months... lets hope this one lasts longer than the last!

cheers

Avatar
Mart | 10 years ago
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I believe that these are fast racing tyres and as such the compound will be quite soft. Good for grip in the dry and controlled braking but liable to flat spot if locked up.
I have to say that it must have been an impressive skid.

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dave atkinson | 10 years ago
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i'd say it's definitely the result of locking the back wheel. if you skidded for long enough, and the road surface was aggressive enough (new chip and seal for example) you can do a fair amount of damage to a road tyre in a single skid

Avatar
SPAM Naval | 10 years ago
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looks like a road scuff as a result of you locking up the back wheel. I had a similar result on a Conti 4000s after locking up trying to stop at a red light (see we do stop at red lights  3 .I was surprised at how quickly and deeply it wore through. Maybe you missed it the first time you looked...think I did also

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