Reading a tube thread on another forum got me thinking about different tubes. Most riders go with the ultra heavy duty tube, 'cuz thicker is better, right? Well, most tube punctures I have had are nails or other metal objects, the UHD tubes didn't stop them. Pinch flats are another problem, but the heavy duty tubes seem to prevent better than standard thickness, not sure if UHD's are more protection against pinch flats.
Two problems I find with UHD's are little harder to install due to more bulk, and weigh more. Unsprung weight does affect handling much more than most riders realize, especially when running a heavy back tire such as a Maxxis or Gritty. Shaving as much unsprung weight off the wheels makes a huge difference in handling. I have been running Bridgestone Heavy Duty tubes for the past year, still average a couple of flats a year, but not more than when running the UHD's.
So, an informal poll, is the weight saving of a lighter tube offset the small gain of the UHD's? Just looking to make the riding experience as trouble free as possible.
Two problems I find with UHD's are little harder to install due to more bulk, and weigh more. Unsprung weight does affect handling much more than most riders realize, especially when running a heavy back tire such as a Maxxis or Gritty. Shaving as much unsprung weight off the wheels makes a huge difference in handling. I have been running Bridgestone Heavy Duty tubes for the past year, still average a couple of flats a year, but not more than when running the UHD's.
So, an informal poll, is the weight saving of a lighter tube offset the small gain of the UHD's? Just looking to make the riding experience as trouble free as possible.