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  1. MushroomFondue on

    Those look like sew-up, tubular, tires. They are indeed glued on. They have their own rims, so you can’t just swap in clinchers. If you want to switch to clinchers, you’ll need to either change the wheelset or replace the rims.

  2. Those tubs look old, the sidewalls look dried out and cracking and the glue holding them on the rims may also be dried out. It turns into powder with age.

    If the glue is dried, there’s a good chance the tires will roll off the wheel while riding. This usually ruins the rim as well as whatever part(s) of your body slam into the ground…

    OP, please take this bike to a shop and have the tires checked over!

  3. You’ll need new wheels. Those rims are tubular, designed for tubular tires (AKA Sew ups) to be glued to them. They have a bed, not a channel which is what is needed for clincher tires. OR remove the tubular tires on there, have the rims trued (it’s the rim, not the tire that makes it wobble) and buy some tubulars and re-glue (or have a pro do it) get ones with removable valve cores so you can add sealant if you get a puncture

  4. Tubulars get a bad rap. They are actually quite nice to ride. BUT not cheap and not the best for beginners. Judging from the photos they seem a bit dry and could roll (off). Take it to a shop and have them show you how to replace and I would suggest using tape.

    You could look for new wheels but from the photo it looks like your bike is period correct. I would do some research and find either a period correct clincher wheelset or rims and have your shop rebuild the wheels.

    Lastly, look into local classes or find someone that can educate you on vintage maintenance. Also research, research, research. Look at old repair manuals and watch video. Sheldon Brown is a good stating point.

  5. Just bought 3x Continental Giro Tubulars online – and, most importantly a mini, rechargeable inflator! [at 100+ psi, not an easy pump]

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