Rim Tape & Tyre Fitting

cycladianpirate

I dug out a rather old Hybrid that I hadn't used for some time. Fitted (with a little difficulty) some new Schwalbe Marathons and was a bit disappointed to get a puncture first time out. On inspection of the tube (and the rim) it was pretty obvious that my rim tape needed replacing. After a little research, Velox cloth tape seemed to be the sturdiest I could find.

However, and (at long last) I come to the point, refitting the Marathons has proved to be an absolute nightmare. Can thicker rim tape really make so much difference and, if so, does anyone know of a thin and durable alternative?

Many thanks for any tips.

Berk Bonebonce

I can't imagine rim tape making the re-fitting of your tyres any more difficult. And the Velox cloth stuff is the best.

Washing up liquid can sometimes assist in the fitting of tyres.

whyamihere

Cloth tape on many rims can indeed make fitting tyres next to impossible. I won't use it any more.

nicklouse

have a watch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XUFVrl0UT4

cycladianpirate

Thanks for that. I had seen that vid before and used it to get the tyre on first time (with the old, plastic tape). Finally managed it with the new tape using a tyre lever. Still, not too sure I fancy going through that again when out on the road!!!

daveyroids

I know i will probably get hounded for saying this, but I use duct tape as rim tape. Just tear it at the correct width and slap it on. Its worked for years for me. It is thin and quite strong. May eliminate some of the problems that your experiencing with the cloth tape.