Inner tubes are an essential component of most bicycle tyres. They are thin, rubber, inflatable tubes that fit inside the tire casing and hold the air that provides cushioning and support to the bike. Inner tubes are used to keep the clincher inflated, which allows the bike to roll smoothly over rough terrain, absorb bumps and improve overall handling.
When a bicycle tire goes flat, it is often because the inner tube has gotten punctured or developed a leak. In such cases, the damaged hose can be removed and replaced with a new one.
Inner tubes come in various sizes and types, and selecting the correct one for a particular tire is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
A puncture resistant bike tube is a type of bicycle tube designed to resist punctures and reduce the likelihood of flat tires. It's typically made of thicker, more durable materials than a standard inner tube, such as butyl rubber or polyurethane.
The main difference between inner tubes for MTB (Mountain Bike) and racing bikes (Road Bike) is the size and shape. MTB inner tubes are typically wider and thicker than those used in road bikes to withstand the rough terrain and heavy impact of a mountain bike.
The inner tubes of racing bikes, on the other hand, are generally thinner and narrower to minimize weight and rolling resistance, which is essential for reaching high speeds on paved roads. They are also often made with lighter materials, such as latex or butyl rubber, to improve their performance.
Both types of inner tubes are available in different types of valves, including Schrader and Presta, which are compatible with different types of rims.
It is important to choose the correct size and type of inner tube valve for your bike to ensure a secure and proper fit. Also, it is important to regularly check the air pressure in the inner tubes to maintain optimum performance and avoid flats.
To read the measurements of a tube, you usually need to look for three numbers written on the outer surface of the tube. These numbers indicate the diameter and width of the tube, as well as the tire size that the tube is designed for. Measurements are usually written in inches or millimeters.
Let's say you have an inner tube with the numbers "700 x 25/32c" written on it. This indicates that the inner tube is designed to fit a tire with a diameter of 700mm and a width of 25mm to 32mm. The "c" at the end indicates that the tire is a clincher type.
If the measurements were in inches, it would be written as "27 x 1-1/8 to 1-1/4". This would indicate that the tube is designed to fit a tire with a diameter of 27 inches and a range of widths from 1-1/8 inches to 1-1/4 inches.
It is important to ensure that the tube you choose is compatible with the size and width of the tire to ensure proper fit and function.
The cost of a bicycle inner tube varies from €5 to €20 depending on the brand, size and features.