SILCA has introduced its latest Ultimate TPU tubes, touting a super-lightweight “un-pigmented thermoplastic polyurethane construction” that bolsters structural integrity, while also yielding a higher rolling resistance compared to tubes that rely on dyes or coloring agents.
According to SILCA, this results in a claimed savings of 2 to 4 watts over butyl tubes, and a 0.2 watt benefit over the leading latex tubes.
“TPU materials have made big strides over the last few years and have all but matched the rolling resistance efficiencies of Latex tubes or a Tubeless set up at a fraction of the weight of latex. Our tubes range from 45-62g keeping weight at an all time low, while reducing rolling resistance and their tiny size for packing efficiency,” says SILCA.
“TPU tubes have long been a favorite of ours to keep for spares in your saddle bag because of how little space they take up in the bag. This allows you to carry two tubes when only one would previously have fit. The issue has long been that the plastic valves were susceptible to detaching from the tube itself, the valve cores were often pressed into plastic causing leaking issues, and the sleeve joint where the tube was joined would often fail. Having a spare tube doesn’t do you much good if when you go to use it, it falls apart. SILCA set out to change that. Our TPU tubes have a patented technology to mechanically attach the valve to the tube itself and a welded joint to stop failures in their tracks. We have also used a threaded aluminum valve to help the tube resist heat from electric pumps and included a valve nut for the ultimate in a rattle-free and secure design,” adds SILCA.
The Ultimate TPU tubes are available in 700×24-43mm for road and 700×44-64mm for off-road, with 50mm and 70mm valve options for $39.00.
Oh, and SILCA saw fit to package the tubes in nothing sort of sleek, German made boxes for an uber flair.
SILCA
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