The major manufacturers of bicycle inner tubes have been presenting new products made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) in their catalogs for some years now.TPU inner tubes are therefore a reality increasingly appreciated by cyclists.In fact, the technical characteristics of this type of inner tube seem to favor performance and safety.The high cost, however, has so far confined its use to a few enthusiasts willing to shell out a considerably greater sum than what is necessary to purchase a traditional product.So let's see the pros and cons of the TPU inner tube.The first advantage, always appreciated by cyclists, is the lightness.A TPU inner tube, on average, weighs from 50 to 60 grams while traditional inner tubes settle at 100-110 grams.The use of TPU tubes, therefore, would reduce the total weight of the bicycle by as much as 100 grams.Not bad.The advantage of the reduced weight, however, is not an end in itself because the reduction of the rotating mass makes it possible to increase the reactivity and smoothness of the wheels.It is also an ecological product being 100% recyclable.The mechanical characteristics of thermoplastic polyurethane give it high resilience, as well as resistance to shocks, abrasions, tears, atmospheric agents and even hydrocarbons.These features make it possible to create an extraordinarily puncture-resistant inner tube beyond the apparent fragility of the material which seems almost impalpable.And even if a foreign body manages to puncture the TPU inner tube, its response, compared to traditional inner tubes, is better.In fact, while in the traditional air chamber the hole expands immediately, favoring a sudden loss of pressure.In the event of a puncture in the TPU, the same material does not expand and in a certain sense the loss of pressure can be very limited and prolonged over time, almost like a tubeless.As we said, the only real limit to the diffusion of TPU inner tubes are costs.While a traditional inner tube costs an average of 3 to 7 euros, TPU inner tubes are unlikely to be offered to the public for less than 30 euros.Not a little certain, but after analyzing the benefits and above all the duration of this type of inner tube, perhaps it is an investment that can prove to be the right one.Also because with 60 euros we could also positively affect the physical behavior of the bicycle like much more expensive solutions.The Sport Spirit srl © 2022. All rights reserved.Privacy Policy |Cookie Policy