I got a flat the other day, and now I’m looking to replace the spare tube I carry with me.
I can’t seem to find anything locally in the size I need (29x2.6) and I don’t want to pay shipping on a small inexpensive item.
I spoke with an LBS on the phone and the sales person told me that a 29x2.125 - 2.4" tube would work. I realize that’s a small difference in width and I assume tubes are built to inflate more than is listed on the box, but has anyone else heard that or had experience with using tubes that are listed as smaller than their tire?
I don’t want to end up buying a tube that will end up failing right after replacing a flat mid-ride.
That size difference won’t be an issue at all. But, I second @Nige’s recommendation. Time to go tubeless and just carry a tube for emergencies only–at that point, it doesn’t really matter, it just has to let you finish the ride.
That size is fine, hell you could, in a pinch use a 27.5, can probably even stretch a 26”.
I’m working on a “budget” tubeless setup now. I have everything I need for $61. 79% of that is me buying good off the shelf sealant that will be good for 8 tires.
For the sake of it, let’s say I sell the remainder of the sealant to someone needing it.
The cost to me to go tubeless (2 valves, rim tape, enough sealant for two tires) I’m into this for just shy of $25.
I’m going tubeless so I can run lower pressures without the worry of pinching a tube.
I was going to ask about that.
I’ve been doing some reading and watching videos and they say the sealant should be replaced from time to time. The time seems to vary from 2 months to a year depending on what who wrote the article. How often are people changing their sealant? Also any issues with cold temperatures?
Good to know. I figured there was a tolerance and that a smaller tube would work. Think I’ll pick up a spare (smaller) tube for now and look at going tubeless soon.
Dang it!
I got myself all excited to go tubeless, priced out stems and sealant, watched videos on how to install the tires only to find out the Trail Boss I bought for 70% off on Chain Reaction is not tubeless ready. I assumed it was tubeless ready because according the WTB’s site the trail boss is. When I actually looked at the bike however I realized it’s not tubeless ready. Maybe it’s an old version of the tire - hence the discount.
I understand it is possible (but not recommended) to go tubeless with a non-tubeless tire but I don’t think I’ll risk it.
Oh well, when the tire wears out I’ll keep this in mind and maybe convert then.
My experience has been that using a tire that’s not “tubeless ready” still works fine running tubeless. I’ve mounted 8-10 tires (All Maxxis though) and run them for extended periods with no issues both “ghetto” (split tube method) and using rim tape (Stan’s or Gorilla tape). YMMV
I don’t even know if it is factor but Trek’s Bontrager sealant has an additive to prevent cold weather problems. I’ve used next to everything and never had a problem during the winter, though.
Thanks for the offer, but I think I’ll hold off for a bit.
This’ll be my first experience with tubeless setup and I’d rather not try anything too complicated starting out.
I think I’ll wait until my rear tire wears out and replace it with a tubeless ready tire and change over then.