Latex inner tubes

[eric_james]

Are latex inner tubes worth it?

 

[mk one]

In what respect?

 

[eric_james]

Well they appear to be more expensive to start with. Are they better than a conventional inner tube?

 

[mk one]

They tend to be lighter, used to slowly seep air though so need pumping up more often.

 

[eric_james]

someone online said they give a better rolling resistance. I couldn't see how

 

[mk one]

Less rolling resistance, and it all adds up, so a lighter overall wheel will need less energy to turn.

 

[prezza]

Because anything lighter at the wheel creates less rolling resistance. Physics apparently…
I’ve had latex tubes in the past when I was obsessed with the weight of my S Works Stumpjumper hardtail… however, I don’t use them anymore as the weight saving is minimal and I found them less reliable and also prone to splitting at the valve.

 

[eric_james]

I didn't really think a few grams would make much difference

Conti 26" tube with schrader valve > 440g
Michelin 26" latex tube with schrader valve > 128g

but that's a big difference

 

[prezza]

Wow… that is a difference! That’s why I probs used them on my Stumpy all those years ago!

 

[synchronicity]

Nope, don't do it.
Especially for onroad, you'll be pumping them up daily.

Better to get polyurethane tubes by tubolito, aerothan or pirelli. They hold air better, but they are costly.