Tutorials & Buyers Guide
Tutorials
Basic Buyers Guide
- Size
- You'll need to make sure you get a tube that fits your current tyre. Our tubes are listed as:
[diameter] x [minimum width] - [maximum width]
The sizes can get a bit complicated if you go into the true sizes of the ISO codes (try here on Wikipedia) but all you need to do is check your current wheel/tyre for its size, and get a diameter & width that matches. If you're not sure, or have any questions, please use the contact us page and we'll get back to you ASAP! - Valve Types
- We stock two valve types: Presta and Schrader. Schrader valves have a larger diameter, which means that a larger hole is required in the wheel for the valve to fit through. As a larger hole in the wheel can reduce it's strength, thinner wheels (usually found on road/racing bikes) will have a smaller hole drilled and so will fit only Presta valves. Schrader valves can also allow a small amount of air to escape when the pump is removed from the valve, so high pressure tyres will generally use Presta valves. Presta valves can be a bit more fiddly though, and if you want to use a standard car pump you'll need to get an adapter. You're best checking what's currently in your wheel, and getting the same valve.
- Valve Stems
- Our valve stems are of varying length and width. The length will be noted (where appropriate) in individual product description. If you require any further information feel free to contact us.
- Tube Materials
- Most inner tubes are made from Butyl rubber; a synthetic rubber which is impermeable to air and has great flex properties. Unless specified our tubes are made out of Butyl rubber (Polyisobutylene):
Butyl rubber was invented due to the shortage of (natural) latex during WWII; before then all inner tubes were made using latex. Inner tubes made with latex are still available; they're generally thinner (so lighter) and offer slightly more flex. The downside of latex tubes is that they're less impermeable to air (so will need topping off more often) and that latex can be weakened by oils. - Inflated Pressure
- Your tubes need to be inflated to the correct pressure inside your tyre so as to reduce the probability of punctures (pinch flats if under-inflated/ from sharp objects if over-inflated), and to keep rolling resistance to a minimum whilst maintaining a comfortable and safe ride. Recommended pressures vary greatly on tyre type and width; say from 40 psi (MTB) to 180 psi (competitive indoor racing) as common values. Check your tyre manufacturer's website, or give us a mail if you're a bit lost.
