Vittoria Latex Tubes - I have used brands including Bontrager, Michelin, Vredstein, and Challenge. More expensive - They are usually a couple of dollars more than something like a Conti Race butyl tube. It is always good to order 4, 6, or even 8 at a time. Shortages of latex during crucial racing months have occurred. Harder to source - Most local bike shops don't carry latex tubes so you will have to buy them online and I suggest in bulk. It is the most reliable way to run latex.
When it comes down to it, I always go back to tape. Being thinner actually makes mounting tires easier. As an added benefit the special rim tape is both thinner and lighter than a cloth-based rim strip. Instead you need a special rim tape that is smooth, strong, and non-porous. Requires different rim tape - Because latex is very sneaky you will have all kinds of mysterious flats and issues if you use the cloth rim tape that likely came with your wheels.
IRON HORSE BIKE INNER TUBES INSTALL
Take your time with install and you will be fine.
This is a very common installation issue that has lead to latex's bad rap. Then when you pump up the tire the tube will explode. Requires careful installation - Latex is very sneaky and if you aren't careful in the installation process the tube can sneak its way underneath the bead of the tire and get stuck between the tire and the rim. Some people don't like this feature for training so I suggest to those people that they just use latex tubes for racing. Adding sealant to latex tubes drastically slows down the rate of air leaks. If you race latex tubes you have to pump them up on race morning. Require frequent pumping - Latex tubes leak air a lot faster than butyl. Usually sealants are made of latex themselves and have a much greater chance of sealing punctures in latex tubes. Tire sealant works better in latex - the chance of sealant sealing anything in butyl is not great. No weight difference - Your standard durable latex tube weighs about the same as the standard butyl race light tube at about 75 grams. For Ironman triathletes coming off the bike this can be a huge advantage. They are more comfortable and will leave you fresher for the run - Because latex is so supple they don't transmit as much vibration to your body. They handle better - Many people believe they handle better because they are so supple that they are able to deform more easily and grab the road better. Simply put, the installation process is a little more involved but if you take your time you won't have issues. However they get a bad rap if you read reviews or talk to the typical shop employee because these people are not installing them properly. They are less flat prone - Contrary to popular belief they are less susceptible to flats than butyl tubes. However you don't have to pay $3,000 for a set of latex tubes. Regardless of the actual times savings, think of it this way, the savings going from butyl tubes => latex is greater than going from standard training wheels => 80mm deep aero wheels. Those at the front of the race can save three to four minutes in an Ironman while someone at the back, who is heavier, might be able to save double that. The actual savings will vary based on how fast you are going and your weight.
Latex tubes have lower rolling resistance than standard butyl tubes. They are faster - Rolling resistance is a big factor slowing you down. If you aren't willing to spend the time then stick to butyl tubes.
IRON HORSE BIKE INNER TUBES HOW TO
If you want to go faster and are willing to spend a little extra time learning how to install them then latex is the way to go. Nothing adds more speed per dollar than latex tubes, but latex isn't for everyone. Vittoria latex bikes tubes are faster, more comfortable to ride, and less likely to flat. Michelin Latex (left), Vittoria Latex (middle),
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