2022.08.11
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Vittoria is a new generation of lightweight inner tubesUltra Light Speedis released.
Compared to Vittoria’s standard butyl inner tube, the new70% lighter, 14% faster and 57% puncture resistantIt says.
In addition, the tube is recyclable, so it is environmentally friendly.
Vittoria achieved its goal of creating ultra-lightweight tubes with a little-known ingredient called Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU).
Ultra Light Speed
Image credit: vittoria
Thermoplastic polyurethane is a type of plastic.
TPU(Thermoplastic Poly urethane), which has become widely used in industry and consumer products due to its extreme durability and wide applicability.
Not only is TPU recyclable, but its application is flexible, it is stable from 47°C to 100°C, and it retains its shape even when it is stretched thin.
In addition, it is elastic, so it can maintain airtightness while maintaining air pressure, and it is also characterized by being resistant to punctures. Even if punctured, it can hold air longer than butyl or latex.
The butyl inner tube is 1mm thick, while the TPU tube is thin at 0.35mm. Therefore, it cannot be welded without “high frequency technology”.
Weight comparison and rolling resistance Image credit: vittoria
According to Vitria’s technical information, TPU weighs 30g, which is very light, less than half that of butyl or latex.
Compared to butyl, it is 160g lighter when used before and following. This is a good deal. Although it is small, it can be seen that the rolling resistance is also good.
Image credit: vittoria
While TPU has many advantages, it also has disadvantages. That’s because TPU is very sensitive to heat above a defined threshold.
High temperatures are the nemesis of thermoplastic polyurethanes. So, in rare cases, rim brakes can get extremely hot and degrade the inner tube.
That’s why, the company says, only bikes with disc brakes should use TPU tubes.
“To guarantee rider safety, we recommend using this inner tube only on bicycles with disc brakes,” emphasizes Vittoria.
Puncture resistant, but the package also includes a repair patch and cleaning cloth.
The price is $ 30 (regarding 4,000 yen).
