Bicycle inner tube

Buying a bicycle inner tube: The most important criteria

When you buy a new bicycle inner tube, choosing the right model is crucial for safety and riding comfort. High-quality bicycle spare parts significantly reduce the risk of punctures. Pay attention to the following criteria:

• The exact tube size: Must match the tire, otherwise there is a risk of folds or overstretching.
• The right valve: Depends on the hole in your rim.
• The material: Determines weight, air retention, and rolling resistance.
• The intended use: Reinforced tubes for e-bikes, lightweight models for racing bikes.

The right valve type: Presta, Schrader, or Dunlop

Not every valve fits through every rim hole. There are three common valve types:

• Presta valve (French valve / Sclaverand): Very narrow (6.5 mm), ideal for road bikes and modern mountain bikes, reliably holds high tire pressure.
• Schrader valve (Auto valve): Wider (8.5 mm), robust and practical, can be inflated at any gas station.
• Dunlop valve (Blitz valve): The classic (8.5 mm) for city and trekking bikes, particularly easy to use.

Tip: Order matching accessories like air pumps and CO2 cartridges at the same time to be equipped for any valve type.

Material and durability: Butyl, Latex, or TPU

• Butyl tubes: The standard. Robust, inexpensive, and reliably hold air in the tire for weeks.
• Latex tubes: Preferred in racing. Lighter and more elastic, which reduces rolling resistance. Disadvantage: They must be topped up before every ride.
• TPU tubes (e.g., Schwalbe Aerothan): Modern special plastic with very low weight and compact pack size, ideal as a spare tube for on the go.

Size compatibility: Which tube fits which tire?

The correct tube size is the most important criterion: A tube that is too small will overstretch and burst, while one that is too large will crease and chafe through. We offer suitable models for every wheel size:

• 26-inch bicycle inner tubes for classic mountain bikes and youth bikes.
• 28-inch bicycle inner tubes for trekking bikes, city bikes, and road bikes.
• 29-inch bicycle inner tubes for modern MTBs and E-MTBs.

How to read the ETRTO size correctly

Check the ETRTO size on the sidewall of your bicycle tires, e.g., 42/622:

• The first number (42): Tire width in millimeters.
• The second number (622): Inner diameter of the tire; here, this corresponds to 28 inches.

The new inner tube must cover these values within its specified tolerance range, regardless of whether you choose Schwalbe, Continental, or another brand.

Puncture-resistant tubes for everyday use

Nothing is more annoying than a flat tire on the way to work or during a tour. A puncture-resistant tube significantly reduces this risk: Reinforced wall thicknesses or integrated sealant milk independently seal minor punctures from thorns or glass shards. For all other cases, we recommend a compact puncture kit in your luggage.

Why order your bicycle inner tube from Fadu Bike?

• Tested brand quality: We exclusively stock renowned manufacturers such as Schwalbe and Continental.
• Fair prices: Solid tubes starting from just a few euros, premium models for the highest demands.
• Secure checkout: Encrypted payment with your preferred payment method.
• Statutory warranty: Full protection against material and manufacturing defects.
• Fast shipping: Reliable delivery throughout Austria.

Frequently asked questions about bicycle inner tubes

How often do I need to change my bicycle inner tube?

An intact tube does not have a fixed expiration date. Change it when it no longer holds air, becomes porous, or is irreparably damaged after a puncture.

Are there special tubes for e-bikes?

Yes. Due to the higher weight and speed, reinforced butyl tubes or models with integrated puncture protection are recommended for e-bikes.

How much does a good bicycle inner tube cost?

Standard butyl tubes are available from about 5 euros. Puncture-resistant models cost between 8 and 15 euros, and lightweight TPU tubes range from 20 to 30 euros depending on the size.

How do I know which valve type I need?

A look at the existing tube or the rim hole is sufficient: 6.5 mm indicates Presta, 8.5 mm indicates a Schrader or Dunlop valve. When in doubt, choose the same valve type you had before.