With ContiTPU, the tyre specialist from Korbach has expanded its product portfolio in the bicycle segment. The various ContiTPU sizes cover tyre sizes from 25-622 to 60-584 or 60-622.
7 layers of TPU
Continental uses micrometre-thick TPU in seven layers, which should make it particularly airtight and durable. The hoses also remain uncoloured. The material quality can sometimes be impaired by colouring-related surface defects. To ensure high quality, each ContiTPU hose is also subjected to a manual quality control after production.
Valve stem
Standard valves quickly reach their limits on high-profile rims. Continental has taken precautions and given the valves on ContiTPU hoses an internal thread so that valve extensions can be screwed in - or the valve core can be replaced.
In addition, the base of the valve stem is slightly conical in shape. This is intended to improve the fit in the rim and reduce unwanted movements and associated defects.
Hannah Ferle, Road Product Manager, Continental Tires thinks "that the TPU tube is suitable for every cyclist, whether it's someone who trains for performance and appreciates the reduced rolling resistance or someone like me who wants to pack more snacks in their jersey pockets for a long day on the bike."
The ContiTPU in detail
- Weight 25/35 - 622: 35 grammes
- Weight 40/60 - 622: 45 grammes
- Weight 40/60 - 584: 43 grammes
- Repair kit included
- Made in Germany
- Price: 29,95 Euro
There are a few things to bear in mind with TPU hoses
- Rim brakes: TPU inner tubes must not be used with rim brakes. Strong heat development can lead to sudden loss of pressure.
- Rim tape: Suitable rim tape must be used to protect the TPU tube, otherwise the tube may be damaged.
- Inflate for assembly: TPU hoses may be filled to a maximum of 0.3 bar when not fitted. Higher pressure can lead to permanent deformation and render the inner tube unusable. In the tyre, this ensures that the deformation takes place exactly in the shape of the tyre.
- Valve hole diameter: Make sure that the valve hole in the rim has the correct diameter. If the valve hole is too large, the valve may twist or tear off.
- Avoid jamming, twisting and damage: As with butyl hoses, care must also be taken with TPU hoses to ensure that neither the hose nor the valve are pinched, twisted or damaged.
- Tyre change: TPU inner tubes must not be reused in a tyre that is narrower than the previous one! If you want to change to a narrower tyre, a new inner tube must also be used.
Sandra Schuberth
Editor
