What is a bike tube?

Asked by: Teresa Ramirez

An inner tube is an inflatable ring that forms the interior of some pneumatic tires. The tube is inflated with a valve stem, and fits inside of the casing of the tire. The inflated inner tube provides structural support and suspension, while the outer tire provides grip and protects the more fragile tube.

How do bike tubes work?

It’s the inner tube, sitting inside the tyre, that holds the air. The inner tube has a valve, used to keep it pumped up. Most inner tubes have either a Presta or Schrader valve, which we’ll come on to. Ensuring you have the right valve type for your bike’s wheels is essential.

Whats the difference between a bike tire and tube?

The inner tube is a soft, pliable rubber donut with an air valve on its underbelly that allows air in and out. Note that a filled inner tube can appear larger than the tire. This is perfectly normal. When encased inside the tire, the tube will not exceed the tire’s dimensions.

Do you need a tube in a bike tire?

Most bicycle tires have tubes, although not all of them do. Tubes give you some distinct advantages, however there are also drawbacks, which is why there are other types of tires on the market as well. Because most tires have tubes, it is an indicator that they are generally the best option for a bike.

Should I replace bike tire or tube?

You should replace a bike’s inner tube when it starts leaking and not holding air. Inner tubes properly mounted inside of bike tires aren’t exposed to UV or dust. They can last years and years inside of a tire. The key is they must be inside tires and at least partially inflated.

What is the tube of a tire?

An inner tube is an inflatable ring that forms the interior of some pneumatic tires. The tube is inflated with a valve stem, and fits inside of the casing of the tire. The inflated inner tube provides structural support and suspension, while the outer tire provides grip and protects the more fragile tube.

Why do bikes use inner tubes?

A bicycle tire is not airtight by itself, so it uses an inner tube, which is basically a doughnut-shaped rubber balloon, with a valve for inflation. The only requirement for an inner tube is that it not leak. Being of rubber, it has no rigid structure.

How do I know what bike tube to buy?

Checking the Inner Tube Size You Need



The best way to check what size inner tube you need is to look on the sidewall of your tyre. Tyre manufacturers print the size on the sidewalls, so look out for numbers such as ‘700x23c’ for a road bike, or ’26×1.

Do mountain bike tires have tubes?

Inner tubes are usually made from butyl but you can get some delicate lightweight latex ones. A tubeless tyre system does away with the inner tube and replaces it with liquid sealant that keeps the air in. To add or remove air you use a screw-in valve that’s located in the usual valve hole in the rim.

Can you put a tube in a tubeless tire?

Yes! There are no issues with using inner tubes within a tubeless tyre system. In most cases, you’d simply remove the tubeless valve and install an inner tube just as you would with a regular clincher system.

How much does it cost to get a bike tube replace?

Flat tire: New inner tube installed for $25, tube included; $20 if you bring us just the wheel. ​Inner tubes typically cost $8. Specialty tubes (extra long valves, odd sizes, thorn proof, etc.) may cost more.

How often do bike tubes need to be replaced?

An inner tube, inside a bike tire and not exposed to high levels of ozone or petroleum fumes (or UV light), can easily last 10-20 years.

Do you need to replace tubes when replacing tires?

i keep using the same tube over and over as long as its in good shape. usually get about 7 to 10 tire changes before the tube looks too old. usually its still in good shape but the valve stem area gets rust and starts to look bad then i replace it.

How long does a bike tube last?

With proper maintenance and storage, bicycle inner tubes have been reported to last up to 15 years, and the shortest lifespan reported is less than 7 days. Common factors that determine the life span of a bike tube include storage, temperature, heat, light, exposure to elements and riding conditions.

How long does it take to change a bike tube?

Someone who is experienced and has been riding for years, know exactly what they are doing it can take as little as 7 minutes, but a new rider who has never changed a tire, and never really worked on a bike before, it can take a lot longer, up to 20 minutes and perhaps more.

How long do bike tires last?

Bicycle tires typically last between 2000 to 3500 miles. Lightweight racing tires last from 800 to 1000 miles. Touring tires are rugged and can last 3500 to 4500 miles. The quality of the tire, road conditions, and how you take care of it all play a role in how long it is going to last.

How much does a bike tire cost?

Depending on your bike needs, a bike tire usually costs from $15 to $150. The brand also affects the bike tire replacement cost.

How do I know if I need new bike tires?

7 Signs to Replace Your Bicycle Tires

• Worn down tread. Easy to spot. …
• Flat spot along the center of the tire. …
• Cracked rubber. …
• Constant flats. …
• Cuts and holes. …
• Worn down to the casing. …
• Bubbles or deformities.

How much does it cost to tune up a bicycle?

Depending on your area, the average bike tune-up costs anywhere between $60 and $100. Most shops offer two options – A Minor/Basic Tune-up that costs $55 to $89 and a Major Tune-up that typically costs between $119 and $150. Cost often depends on the services included in the tune-up.

Can you use WD-40 on bike chains?

Can I use WD-40 to lube my bicycle chain? No. You should never use WD40 as chain lubricant since WD-40 is NOT a true lubricant. WD40 is primarily a solvent or rust dissolver.

How can I service my bike myself?

You might find it's gonna need a little bit of TLC to get it ready or in my case a lot of TLC to get the bike shipshape. And spring ready.

What does a basic bike tune up include?

A basic bike tune up includes checking and adjusting the shifters, cables, the front and rear derailleurs. Adjusting these parts will result in precise shifting, quiet and noiseless derailleurs.

How often should I tune my bike?

once a year

No matter how often you ride you should give your bike a tune-up at least once a year. Today we’ll learn how to tune up your bike, which I’d recommend doing at least once a year, or even every few months if you ride every day.

Is a bike tune up worth it?

Therefore, it is crucial for your safety that all of its systems are working properly, can hold up to the forces they will be subjected to, and that the whole thing can stop securely, dependably and safely. A $150 tune-up turns a beloved old bike into a dependable vehicle.