Does GCN have it right about TPU tubes?
MAE Bikr
24. März 2026
GCN had done an video on the problems with TPU tubes. Consumer level testing can either prove or disprove their claims.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXvL7RC0RMs&t=1s
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SchläucheRideNow TPU Bike Inner Tube 700C X18 23 25 28 32 35 37 40C MTB Gravel Ultralight Bicycle Tire 26 /27.5 /29 Inch with Patch Kit
Erstellt: 2. Februar 2025The reviewer uses the RideNow TPU inner tubes as a primary test subject in an experiment to challenge claims made in a GCN video. They test three identical RideNow tubes (rated 18-32mm) in different tire sizes to examine stretch and reusability. The reviewer also mentions that RideNow is one of the brands that now offers tubes with metal valve stems, which they recommend over plastic ones. They further note using a RideNow patch on a Tubolito tube as an example of successful repair. The overall assessment is that the tubes perform well within their specified range, but can become problematic if overstretched beyond that range.
KI-Zusammenfassung
Pros
- The brand now offers tubes with metal valve stems, which are more durable than plastic ones and can be anchored to the rim.
- The tubes performed well within their manufacturer-specified range (e.g., in 28mm and 32mm tires) with minimal permanent deformation.
- The reviewer successfully used a RideNow patch on a Tubolito tube, indicating the patch kits are effective.
Cons
- When a tube (rated for up to 32mm) was severely overstretched in a 50mm gravel tire, it developed bulges and became unusable for a smaller tire.
- Reinstalling a tube that had been used in a larger tire (even within spec, like moving from a 32mm to a 28mm tire) was more difficult due to residual stretch.
- The reviewer implies that, like other TPU tubes, cheaper versions might have more issues (like phantom punctures), advising to not cheap out.
Key Points
- RideNow is listed among brands (with Silca and QE) that now produce tubes with metal valve stems.
- The tubes tested were identical RideNow tubes rated for tires from 18mm to 32mm in width.
- The tubes are TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane).
- The reviewer's test showed the tubes are not perfectly inelastic but do not fully recover their original shape after being inflated, retaining some permanent stretch.
- A RideNow patch was used successfully on a different brand's tube (Tubolito).
- For rim brake bikes with carbon rims, the reviewer suggests using heavier 40-45g TPU tubes (which RideNow may offer) for heat resistance.
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