So after all the trash-talking about tubies vs clinchers, I’m now a convert *back *to clinchers (from a reasonably content tubie convert - but hey free speed is free speed). Of course using Michelin Pro2Race Clinchers (or one of the iterations…light/service course). On to my question which seems to be the next logical step in the debate: Which tubes are the “best” and why? I’m sure latex, but can someone throw out some advice for which ones they are using? Duarbility, of course, is an issue as I don’t want flats from crazy light, but weak, tubes. What are you guys using? What should I try?
Michelin Air Comp Ultralight, NON-latex. Barely heavier than latex, much cheaper and not nearly as much gradual seepage… There are reports of latex tubes losing most of their pressure overnight. How much can you tolerate losing over a 6 hour ride then? You’re talking about losing 25 lbs or maybe more…
Michelin Air Comp Ultralight, NON-latex. Barely heavier than latex, much cheaper and not nearly as much gradual seepage… There are reports of latex tubes losing most of their pressure overnight. How much can you tolerate losing over a 6 hour ride then? You’re talking about losing 25 lbs or maybe more…
Errrrr…those babies are far more puncture-prone than latex, and they don’t roll as well. I’ve ridden latex tubes in 1 IM and 4 halfs, as well as a 5 and a 7-hour ride. Never lost any pressure that I could notice. Overnight (12+ hours) they’ll lose ~10 pounds but, heck, just pump them up in the morning. Did you know that all the best tubular tires have latex tubes in them? People riding those don’t seem to be rolling into T2 on the rims.
Finally – CO2 leaks out of thin butyl in no time – like 20 minutes! I had to stop in an IM after the thin butyl tube I had used as a spare kept leaking out. I since tested one when I got back home and, sure enough, CO2 diffuses through those things fast.