Inner Tubes?

kennycl
kennycl Posts: 28
edited September 2009 in Road buying advice
Hi All,

Sorry for suvh a daft question to be my first post, but anyway.... I need some new inner tubes, and having just looked through CRC's website they have a huge selection, for just generally riding on my rodie what kind of tube is most suitable? Any particular recommendations?

I didn't have much look with the first few pages of the search function, but apologies if this has been done to death!

Kenny

Comments

  • Just make sure theyre the right size. I like the Bontraeger ones, but that's because lbs sell them. Don't recommend the Halfords ones though, the valve part is really fat. Some people like the ones made from Latex because they're lighter but apparently they lose air so need pumping up more frequently.
    Loads here, or anywhere online for that matter :)
    http://www.wiggle.co.uk/c/cycle/7/Inner_Tubes_-_Road/
  • Also the long valve ones are better as they are easier to attach the pump to, less messing around.
  • aracer
    aracer Posts: 1,649
    Also the long valve ones are better as they are easier to attach the pump to, less messing around.
    Only if you've got deep rims. If you've got classic shallow rims the short valve is fine to get a pump on, whilst a long valve is unsightly and can actually result in you damaging the tube if using a hand pump since you generate more torque where the valve attaches when pumping.
  • Here's what you need to look for when choosing a tube.
    Valve type- Presta or Shraeder
    Valve length- Lengths are longer for deep aero rims and shorter for shallower/box section rims. If in doubt measure how long the valves are that you're using now.
    Size Tube- Your tyre should have it's size listed on the sidewall. (700-23, 650-20, 26x1.25, etc., etc.) just buy the same size tube and they usually will fit 2 or 3 different width tyres as listed on the box.
    Tube Weight- Super lightweight road tubes can be as light as 55grams and may give a slightly more supple ride but generally puncture easier. Generally the heavier the tube the thicker the rubber and more resistant to punctures but the ride quality can go down a little. Most mfrs make 3-4 different weight tubes for each size so pay attention to the grams listed on the box.
    You'll eventually find what works for you as far as lightweight vs heavy and more durable after plenty of riding time and hopefully not too many punctures.
  • Cheers for that guys, i'll have a hunt and probably go for some slightly heavier ones wth short valves.
  • I would say have a look on ebay as I have just got these in the post today, only took 2 days and have saved a few £ :D
  • aracer
    aracer Posts: 1,649
    Thanks for the tip - for some reason I've never thought to look on ebay for tubes, and I found exactly what I want at a very good price!
  • thanks sicknote - very good price for 5 continental tubes
  • Not a problem as I have had so much good info from here, just glad to give back :D
    Plus you can get 10 from here :)
  • dilemna
    dilemna Posts: 2,187
    Sicknote wrote:
    Not a problem as I have had so much good info from here, just glad to give back :D
    Plus you can get 10 from here :)

    HighonBikes is good. That offer seems pretty good although have not tried Continental tubes before although have tried many others with variable results. For me the best tubes by far, that have never failed, particularly around the valve, are Schwalbe. They feel so much better quality than other makes of tube IMHO.
    Life is like a roll of toilet paper; long and useful, but always ends at the wrong moment. Anon.
    Think how stupid the average person is.......
    half of them are even more stupid than you first thought.
  • NWLondoner
    NWLondoner Posts: 2,047
    Sicknote wrote:
    I would say have a look on ebay as I have just got these in the post today, only took 2 days and have saved a few £ :D

    thanks for that link.


    just got some conti race's for a good price.

    that pack of 5 you got were too shorter valve length