In one embodiment, a tape drive system includes a read channel configured for performing a portion of a data transfer operation, logic adapted for monitoring the data transfer operation for detecting one or more temps within a sliding window spanning a last group of datasets processed, logic adapted for measuring interference between first tier and second tier recovery methods based on the monitoring, logic adapted for setting a backhitch delay based on conditions relating to the interference of first tier and second tier recovery methods as it relates to a determined error burst, and logic adapted for performing a backhitch and altering at least one condition of the data transfer operation after the backhitch delay.