Tire inner tubes

What role does the inner tube play?

The inner tube in a motorcycle plays an essential role as a barrier between the air and the tire. The rubber inner tube that sits inside the tire is filled with air to provide the pressure necessary for the tire to function properly. The inner tube helps maintain the tire's shape and keep the tire in contact with the road surface. Without the inner tube, the tire would lose air and not be able to support the weight of the motorcycle and rider. In tubes also help protect the tire from damage and wear caused by friction and exposure to the elements. Overall, an inner tube is a key component that helps ensure the safety and performance of a motorcycle.

How do I choose an inner tube for my vehicle?

The size of the inner tube you need for your motorcycle will depend on the size of your tire. To determine the size, check the sidewall of the tire. It contains a series of numbers and letters that indicate the tire's width, aspect ratio and diameter. For example, a tire labeled "120/70-17" requires a 17-inch diameter inner tube, which fits a tire with a width of 120 mm and an aspect ratio of 70%.
Note that the size of the inner tube should be matched to the tire size, as a mismatch in size can cause the inner tube to bulge or stretch, increasing the risk of a puncture or tire blowout.
In addition, it is advisable to check the manufacturer's website or owner's manual to see what size inner tube is recommended for your motorcycle model.

How to convert inch size to millimeters

Tube size is usually measured in both inches and millimeters (mm) and can be compared between the two units of measurement.

To convert inches to millimeters, you can use the following formula:

millimeters = inches x 25.4

To convert millimeters to inches, you can use the following formula:

inches = millimeters / 25.4

For example, if you have an inner tube that is 3.50 inches wide, you can convert this to millimeters by multiplying 3.50 x 25.4 = 88.9 mm, you can purchase a 90mm inner tube.

Similarly, if you have an inner tube that is 110mm wide, you can convert this to inches by dividing 110 / 25.4 = 4.3 inches.

Inner tubes come in a wide range of sizes, and it's important to choose the right size for your specific tire to ensure a proper fit and avoid inflation problems.

Types of motorcycle inner tubes

There are several types of motorcycle inner tubes, which include:

Standard inner tubes: These are the most common types of inner tubes and are designed for most standard motorcycle tires. They are made of rubber material and come in different sizes to fit different tire sizes.
Heavy-duty inner tubes: These are thicker and more durable than standard inner tubes and are designed to withstand tougher conditions such as off-road riding and heavy loads.
Butyl inner tubes: These inner tubes are made of a synthetic rubber called butyl, which is known for its tightness, durability and puncture resistance. They are commonly used in high-performance tires.
Latex inner tubes: They are made of natural rubber and are thinner, lighter and more flexible than standard inner tubes. They are also characterized by lower rolling resistance. However, they require more frequent pumping and tend to be more expensive.
Tubliss tubes: These are not inner tubes, but a system that allows the tire to hold air without an inner tube. They are more resistant to punctures and have less rolling resistance. But they are also more expensive and you may need specific tires.

Keep in mind that not all types of tubes will be compatible with all types of tires, so be sure to check tire and tube specifications before you buy.

How often should I replace the inner tube on my motorcycle?

It is generally recommended to replace motorcycle inner tubes when they become damaged or show signs of wear. However, as a general guideline, inner tubes should be checked and possibly replaced every two to three years, or when they have been repeatedly punctured and repaired.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's time to replace the inner tube:

Bulges or blisters on the inner tube
Cracks or cuts on the inner tube
Pressure drop or the inner tube does not hold air
Any signs of rust or corrosion
The inner tube has been punctured multiple times

In addition, if you ride your motorcycle frequently or in harsh conditions, you may need to replace the inner tube more often. It is important to check the inner tube regularly for any signs of wear or damage to ensure the safety of the motorcyclist.

Also keep in mind that inner tubes are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, so it's better to be safe than sorry.

Should I protect my motorcycle's inner tube if I have a spoke wheel?

It is generally recommended to protect the inner tube on your motorcycle if you have spoke wheels. Spoke wheels have nipples that can come into contact with the inner tube, which can cause punctures or other damage. Using a rim strap to protect the inner tube can prevent these problems and extend the life of the inner tube.

In addition, even if a rim strap is in place, it is important to regularly check the wheel and tire for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, cuts or bulges. If you notice any problems, it is important to address them immediately to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of the cyclist.

It is also important to remember that even with a rim strap, care should be taken when mounting the tire and avoid squashing the inner tube between the rim and tire. Also make sure that the inner tube is not twisted or kinked during installation, as this can cause damage or failure.c