Which latex do you use??

BBH
BBH Posts: 476
edited August 2011 in Road buying advice
Calm down, this is not cake stop!!! :roll: :wink:

Just wondering for those using latex tubes
1) Are they worth the cost?
2) Which do you use?

They are for a new set of ksyrium elites with Conti GP4000s tyres (25mm). Was hoping they will shave some weight and also make the ride a bit more comfy. Sensible or not? Cheers guys!
2012 Scott Foil 10 (Shimano dura ace) - in progress
2011 Cervelo S2 (SRAM Red/Force)
2011 Cannondale Caad 10 (Shimano 105)

"Hills Hurt, Couches Kill!!"
Twitter: @MadRoadie

Comments

  • cougie
    cougie Posts: 22,512
    I just buy whatever tubes the local bike cafe have.

    never noticed any difference - and why would latex make the ride comfier ?

    Try running your tyres about 95 PSI ?
  • fish156
    fish156 Posts: 496
    BBH wrote:
    Just wondering for those using latex tubes
    1) Are they worth the cost?
    2) Which do you use?

    Just about the opposite to the last reply:
      1) For me, they're worth the cost. Latex tubes and with a decent pair of tyres bring my race bike to life. Not for any "weight saving" though - I think you can get as light (maybe lighter?) butyl tubes. 2) Vittoria - because they've a removable valve core, so I can use them with valve extensions when I ride on my Zipps.
  • canamdad
    canamdad Posts: 165
    I've been riding the Michelin ones for over 10 years- no problems- on 2 sets of wheels.
  • EKIMIKE
    EKIMIKE Posts: 2,232
    The latex tubes will not make a noticeable difference to comfort. The wider tyres will.

    Subjectively: I've used latex tubes and my conclusion is that there may or may not be a very slightly detectable difference (positive or negative) in the way they ride/roll in comparison to butyl tubes. They may or may not be more resistant to punctures but there are some things out on the roads that will puncture them just as easily as butyl tubes.

    Objectively: They cost almost double that of superlight butyl tubes which are lighter than latex tubes (certainly the case with Michelin, i've weighed them myself). Also extra care is required with fitment of latex tubes so as to not pinch them between the rim and bead (resulting in a blow-out). Oh and also you will need to pump your tyres before every ride as latex tubes can lose at least 10psi overnight.

    I'm not being obtuse, i'm simply saying it how it is taking into account all the myths surrounding latex tubes. Hope that helps.