inner tube shelf life?

pbassred
pbassred Posts: 208
edited March 2017 in Road general
Has anyone done any science on how long an unused tube can remain in storage? I understand that people have their preferences and personal limits, but is there any actual information about how they break down and over how long?

Comments

  • navrig2
    navrig2 Posts: 1,851
    Lidl are offering tubes with a 3 year warranty so they must be expected to last that long at least.
  • simon_masterson
    simon_masterson Posts: 2,740
    I have a front wheel with a tub on dating back to the '80s (Vittoria Pro L 19mm). Holds air fine.
    Retro(ish) TT 2017-
    Fixed TT 2015-2016
  • bbrap
    bbrap Posts: 610
    My pub bike is a late 70's Elswick Hopper (27" wheels). I don't think I've ever changed the tubes. I have changed the tyres though.
    Rose Xeon CDX 3100, Ultegra Di2 disc (nice weather)
    Ribble Gran Fondo, Campagnolo Centaur (winter bike)
    Van Raam 'O' Pair
    Land Rover (really nasty weather :lol: )
  • sungod
    sungod Posts: 17,377
    barring exposure to some chemical nasty, high temperatures, radiation etc., butyl will last decades

    there are different butyl formulations, some will be better than others, but uk is a pretty benign environment, i wouldn't worry about it

    assuming the bike gets regular use i'd think the wheels will wear out before butyl inner tubes (barring punctures)
    my bike - faster than god's and twice as shiny

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