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Re: Am I the only one that finds latex overrated? [Jloewe]
Quote:
after getting a 3rd mystery flat in one year at $13 a piece I decided I was done.


I've never flatted. Still on the original latex tubes I bought. I actually am now wondering how long are they good for. I probably need to change my rim tape at the very least.

On price, I see a site selling latex for 7.99 right now. That's like 2 dollars more than butyl at best. Even at full price, it's still not fair to say 15 a piece. It's really the cost difference that's the factor. And it's more like 7-8 bucks more than butyl per tube. And for maybe 1 or 2 flats a year (that was my rate with butyl, again no flats in 2 years on latex), that's not a huge cost.

I haven't switched back to butyl in a long time, but do recall the first ride with latex feeling significantly different (for a inner tube change that is). We have a paved brick section leaving my neighborhood and the tires just reacted differently under me. Nothing that I can feel speed wise, but research shows it's there. So with less flats, better feel, and minimal cost difference......I just dont see the reason not to.

Quote:
They’re floppy and have to be powedered.

Never powdered them. On the same tubes, but changed tires like 3 times on HED jet+ rims that are notoriously difficult to get tires on. It does take more patience than butyl, but certainly no a show stopper. I was actually pretty anal about checking my butyl tubes before inflating too. With latex, I just take a little more time. Nothing special, just time and spot checking to make sure there is no tube pinched under the bead before inflating.
Last edited by: KG6: Feb 20, 19 4:02

Edit Log:

  • Post edited by KG6 (Lightning Ridge) on Feb 20, 19 3:58
  • Post edited by KG6 (Lightning Ridge) on Feb 20, 19 4:02