Tubs: tape or glue?

andyp

I'm about to build my first ever track bike and will be fitting tubs, also a first. Should I go for tape or glue? I'll be riding on an outdoor track (Herne Hill for those that know it).

Thanks.

meagain

I've only ever used tape, BUT I am a gentle rider and road-only. From what little I know about the track, I THINK I'd opt for glue. Opinion only you understand.

Eddy S

If you’re only every going to ride at HH and if you're planning only to ride endurance type events then tape will probably be ok but would suggest that you go cautious and use Tufo Extreme.

But if you are planning on sprinting or riding on the indoor tracks as well (it will happen… 8) ) then don’t mess around and just glue the tubs. The instructions on the Park Tools site are great BTW.

You will get opposing views and opinions on whether tape is strong and safe enough to use in all track situations and there have been plenty of posts on the more track orientated sites where people have never had any issues/problems using tape. However, I have seen folks with taped tubs at Newport asked to change their wheels or stop riding by ‘the management’.

dennisn

The guys in our club who ride track don't use tape or standard tubular glue. They use
a 3M product whose number eludes me right now(I will try to find out and get back to you). This is a one time glue, meaning it really holds, and you will ruin the tire getting it
off after a flat. I guess this is the price they pay for a good glue job. Then again how often do you have flats on the track and who fixes tubulars anyway??? Will try to get
that 3M number for you.

Dennis Noward

Monty Dog

I used glue many years ago, but it was always such a messy job. I use Tufo extrem these days - never has a problem with it staying put - you'd be OK at Herne Hill, big wide bankings don't mean you'll be putting the same lateral pressure as a 250m indoor track.