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2006-09-06 9:19 AM

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Anoka, Minnesota
Subject: Tube Question
I need to get some new tubes for my tires. Does anyone have any opinion regarding self-sealing tubes (tubes that are pre-treated with sealant)? My initial thought was that if I'm doing a Sprint and I flat out, by the time I get it changed I'd be toast. So using a self-sealing tube would be beneficial. But, if they are just worthless, then I'll go with regular tubes. I would appreciate any thoughts or insights. Thanks.


2006-09-06 10:15 AM
in reply to: #532019

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Expert
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Austin, TX
Subject: RE: Tube Question
Self sealing tubes can work well for small punctures.  But they also are heavier than normal tubes, so it's a tradeoff.  I personally like to go with the lightest option for the race.  I figure that if I flat, there's always another race.  And for training, I just carry a spare tube.  They are cheap enough that I don't mind changing them once in a while.
2006-09-06 10:21 AM
in reply to: #532019

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Andover
Subject: RE: Tube Question
The best thing you can do to upgrade your bike is to get better/lighter wheels, right? So, putting heavier tubes, making more rotational weight, in is a bad thing!

Stick to the regular tubes and practice changing your tire/tubes 'til you get it down pat. And, remember; don't panic if you flat in a race. It’s better to take your time and get it right then rush, not seat the tube properly, then flat again when you pump it up.

LOL! I know, "don't panic" in a race... Right.
2006-09-06 10:33 AM
in reply to: #532153

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The Road Back
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Subject: RE: Tube Question

CptnJackSparrow - 2006-09-06 10:21 AM The best thing you can do to upgrade your bike is to get better/lighter wheels, right? 

Slight hijack, but aerodynamic is lots better than lighter. Weight, even rotational weight, is a factor primarily in acceleration and climbing, not so much in general triathloning/TTing.

I've heard mixed reviews about the ability of these self-sealing tubes to work with high-pressure road tubes.

2006-09-06 12:06 PM
in reply to: #532181

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Andover
Subject: RE: Tube Question
the bear - 2006-09-06 11:33 AM

CptnJackSparrow - 2006-09-06 10:21 AM The best thing you can do to upgrade your bike is to get better/lighter wheels, right? 

Slight hijack, but aerodynamic is lots better than lighter.



I agree, that's why I put "better" first. Should have said "more aero." In any event, if given the choice, I'd still go with lighter -vs- adding weight.


Edited by CptnJackSparrow 2006-09-06 12:06 PM
2006-09-06 1:40 PM
in reply to: #532019

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Los Angeles, CA
Subject: RE: Tube Question
Never worked for me, with my MTB or tri bike. Only thing that worked was those kevlar tires like the Continental gatorskins. I know they are heavy but gives me peace of mind during training/race.


2006-09-07 10:48 AM
in reply to: #532019

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Veteran
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Denver
Subject: RE: Tube Question
They worked well for me in my last sprint tri.  Got a flat with ~3.5 mi left.  Pulled the rear wheel off, then remembered that I had put the self sealing tubes on a couple of weeks before.  Figured I'd take a chance on it, used a CO2 cartridge to reinflate the tire.  Finished the race without any further problems.
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