Do inner tubes make a difference?

Inner tubes do quite a lot more than just hold the air in your tyres. The best inner tubes can make your bike faster, lighter or – by preventing punctures – more reliable.

Are thicker inner tubes better?

If you have a tube that is only a little bit larger, then it probably won’t make a difference. While larger tubes will weigh more, they will retain air better. Because the inner tube is less stretched, the walls are thicker which prevents air loss.

What is the purpose of an inner tube?

An inner tube is an inflatable ring that forms the interior of some pneumatic tires. The tube is inflated with a valve stem, and fits inside of the casing of the tire. The inflated inner tube provides structural support and suspension, while the outer tire provides grip and protects the more fragile tube.

Does it matter what valve inner tube?

Most tubes fit a range of tyres, for example, a 700 x 18-23/25 tube will fit road tyres between 18 and 25mm. Then – you need to choose the right valve. There are two types – Presta, vs Schrader. In most cases, the wheel rim of your bike will only fit one or the other so you need to choose the right one.

How much pressure can a bicycle tube hold?

4 Answers. The inner tube has no significant effect on max pressure. The valve stem area is the only area sensitive to pressure, and in general the valve can withstand 200 PSI or better. (And if you exceed whatever limit there is the result is “catastrophic” failure, not simply the inability to pump in more air.)

Can I use an inner tube that’s too narrow for the tyre?

Yes, you can, as long as you don’t go more than one size smaller, or the differential is not too extreme. A 1.25 in a 1.5 is fine. A 1.25 in a 2.25 is likely to have issues with flats. Your LBS will have tubes.

Why do bikes have inner tubes?

Most bicycles today have tires with tubes inside. The tube is made of rubber, has a valve in it for inflation, and is just the right size and shape to fit inside the tire. This works because the tire and rim act as a system to seal the tire and keep the air inside.

Do bicycles use inner tubes?

Like with other tires, those of road bikes can either have or not have inner tubes. Most road bikes still have inner tubes in them.

What do the numbers on a bicycle inner tube mean?

The first number is the diameter of your wheel. Sizes such as 26, 24, 20, 27.5, 29 and 700c are common tire diameters. The second number (after the X) is the width of your tire. For example, a 26 x 1.75 size means the tire diameter is 26 inches and the tire width is 1.75 inches.

How long should an inner tube last?

An inner tube, inside a bike tire and not exposed to high levels of ozone or petroleum fumes (or UV light), can easily last 10-20 years.

What type of inner tube do I need for my bike?

The inner tube has a valve, used to keep it pumped up. Most inner tubes have either a Presta or Schrader valve, which we’ll come on to. Ensuring you have the right valve type for your bike’s wheels is essential. What size inner tube do I need? The simple answer is: one that fits inside your tyre.

How do tubeless tyres work?

In a tubeless setup, there’s no inner tube; the tyre itself has an airtight seal to the rim and holds the air, without a tube.

What are the different types of inner tubes?

Butyl inner tubes are generally the cheapest, most common type of inner tube available and are usually available in every size you might need. Cheaper ones can be heavy and bring increased rolling resistance, however. Inner tubes are typically made of rubber: either butyl or latex. Butyl rubber tubes are the most common.

What is an inner tube valve used for?

The inner tube has a valve, used to keep it pumped up. Most inner tubes have either a Presta or Schrader valve, which we’ll come on to. Ensuring you have the right valve type for your bike’s wheels is essential.