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.

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.

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

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.

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.