Weight Weenies

Any reason to replace a latex tube after a season? Put about 700-900 miles on mine last season, with no flats (then they were deflated pretty much all winter).. Not a ton of miles, but I recall someone saying that they replace theirs every season due to the stretching or something.

Thanks for the opinions.

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VTBike wrote:Any reason to replace a latex tube after a season? Put about 700-900 miles on mine last season, with no flats (then they were deflated pretty much all winter).. Not a ton of miles, but I recall someone saying that they replace theirs every season due to the stretching or something.

Thanks for the opinions.

I replace my latex after each use

OK couldn't avoid the fun in that tongue-in-check reply - I've been more than satisfied to use my tubular tire and clincher latex tubes for years and years - I don't flat often so have no reason to toss them prematurely.

Take a look and decide. Some seem to last better than others.

absolutely no reason to replace after only one season....why?

Does anybody else get ripples in their latex tubes from dimpling rim tape, and does anyone know if the rippling poses any issues with the integrity of the tube?

I've never replaced a latex tube unless I've had a puncture, and that's happened twice. Both due to pinches on gravel roads (one actually happened on a real strada biancha. A fond memory). I've been using Michelins.
Latex tubes adapt to the "terrain" of the rim bed. That's one reason for their low rolling resistance.

The dimpling is normal. You don't need to replace them each season.

I'm considering getting some, how long do they hold up for with 150-200miles a week being ridden on them?

Nice! Thanks for replies. That's what I wanted to hear.

Hi,

If it's any help, I have several sets of latex inner tubes that have been in use (on and of) for more than ten years now.
For as long as you do not over stretch them and store them away from UV rays (sun and artificial light sources) they can last a very long time.

Ciao,

beardking wrote:I'm considering getting some, how long do they hold up for with 150-200miles a week being ridden on them?

I used latex with my wheel for about a year I BELIVE I have done 1500 miles and no issue so far. Only real risk is when you want to take it out maye to move it to another tyre, then it is very sensitive to be pinched and gone.

second question, do i get the michelin ones or the vittoria ones? is there any difference?

The Michelin is green and the Vittoria is pink.

(Tongue out of cheek) They both seem to be of excellent quality.

Either brand works for me. If I get Mich tubes I get the 19-22 size. I will even patch the tubes. Use an old tube to make the patch and use the glue out of a regular patch kits. Works great.

beardking wrote:second question, do i get the michelin ones or the vittoria ones? is there any difference?

I'm very happy with the vittorias. While people exist that have had negative experiences with both, it seemed like more people said to stay away from michelin.

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