MTB inner tubes

How to choose a mountain bike inner tube

Even on a tubeless-equipped bike, a spare inner tube remains essential in your bag: it is what gets you home when sealant is no longer enough. Hutchinson, Continental, Schwalbe, Maxxis, Pirelli and Tubolito cover 26", 27.5" and 29".

What diameter and width?

• The diameter must match your wheel: 26", 27.5" or 29".
• The width range indicated (for example 2.10-2.50) must cover the actual width of your tyre.
• A 27.5" inner tube can get you out of trouble on a 29" wheel in an emergency, but it remains a temporary solution.

Which valve type?

• Presta : the standard on the vast majority of mountain bikes.
• Schrader : found on some leisure and e-bike models.
• Valve length depends on rim depth, which is generally shallower on mountain bikes than on road bikes.

Reinforced butyl or TPU?

• Standard butyl : economical and repairable with a puncture patch.
• Reinforced butyl : thicker, suitable for enduro riding and low-pressure tyres.
• TPU : very light and compact, the best choice for a spare inner tube.

To find out more: How to choose mountain bike inner tubes

See also: 29-inch mountain bike tyres · 27.5-inch mountain bike tyres · Tubeless kits and rim tape