In times of tubeless tire systems, one might think that the good old bicycle tube can no longer be developed further. At Tubolito, things are decidedly different. The result: a 85 g light 29" thermoplastic tube for MTBs that is said to be particularly puncture-proof.
Tubolito tube made of thermoplastic: light and robust
An 85 g light 29" tube for MTB - how does that work? The Austrian supplier Tubolito achieves this by using a thermoplastic material and a seamless production process. According to its Austrian developers, the thermoplastic material should be able to expand more than fourfold and thus withstand twice as high forces despite its low weight. As a result, the bicycle tube is not only light, but is also said to be significantly more puncture-resistant than conventional models, so that the thermoplastic tube can be used on XC, marathon, touring and enduro bikes. The Tubolito is said to be up to 65% lighter.
Tubo-MTB, S-Tubo-MTB and Tubo-Road-700c different versions
For fans of classic 26" mountain bikes, the bright orange Tubo-MTB from Austria is available in a 29" version as well as a 78 g light 26" version. It is also available in 27.5", then 82 g light. In addition to these three well-known Tubo-MTB versions, Tubolito is launching the thermoplastic tube in an even lighter version in the form of the S-Tubo-MTB series. The three S-Tubo MTB models should be just as puncture-proof, while only weighing 45 g (29"), 44 g (27.5") and 42 g (26"). Another special feature: Thanks to the unscrewable valve, they can be rolled up to save space in a touring backpack. Just like the Tubo-MTB series, Tubolito sees the S-Tubo-MTBs as a light alternative to tubeless set-ups. All six MTB models can be combined with tires up to 2.4" wide.
The Tubo Road 700c model (€32,90) was conceived for use on racing bikes, triathlon and time trial machines. It is said to tip the scales at just 33 g and can be ridden with tires up to a width of 28 mm. This actually saves a few grams per wheel compared to conventional inner tubes - not inconsiderable for speed addicts.
27.5" Plus version for Plus and e-bikes
Bikers who like to go trail hunting with 27.5"-Plus tires might be pleased with the Tubo-MTB-27.5+ tube: Can be used with 2.5 to 3.0" wide tires, it weighs only 105 g and costs €29,90. In addition to Plus hardtails and fullys, it can also be used on E-MTBs.
Tubo-Flix-Kit: Special breakdown kit for the thermoplastic hose
Of course, the Tubolitos can also be repaired, but this only works with the patches specially developed for the thermoplastic tube. For €9,90, the biker can purchase 10 patches and the associated adhesive.
Pack size reduced by half creates space in the touring backpack
With prices starting at €29,90, significantly more expensive than a conventional bicycle tube, the Tubolito is an effective way of reducing the overall weight of the bike and helps to keep the touring backpack pleasantly light. In addition, the compact tube takes up little space in a backpack or bike hip bag. Their low weight and pack size could also make the Tubolitos interesting for tubeless drivers.
Distribution of Tubolito via RTI Sports
RTI Sports from Koblenz (brands: Ergon, Terry, Topeak, etc.) is now responsible for the sale of Tubolito hoses in Germany. The light Tubo-MTB tubes cost €29,90 each, the extra-light S-Tubo-MTB models €32,90 each.