Pirelli adds 2 new TPU tube options to its SmarTUBE range

Pirelli has launched 2 new models of TPU innertube, with the SmarTUBE EVO and SmarTUBE X adding to its existing road, gravel, and MTB focused SmarTUBE range.

Made of a new TPU formula, this is said to boost performance, when paired with the brands P Zero tyres’ – designed for lightness and speed. Pirelli claims, as a result of in-house testing, that the SmarTUBE EVO delivers up to 50% less weight compared to latex inner tubes, whilst also offering an extra 5% reduction in rolling resistance when, compared with the Pirelli SmarTUBE.

In comparison, the new SmarTUBE X, dedicated Cinturato and Angel tyre ranges, offers robustness and puncture resistance which is suitable for city settings or for fast commuting.

SmarTUBE Evo TPU tube and the Pirelli P Zero: A combination of smoothness and comfort

The wider SmarTUBE product range is made of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) characterised by high elasticity and mechanical resistance, and extreme lightness.

This latest evolution of the SmarTUBE models is said to come in response to feedback from World Tour teams work with Pirelli, all with the aim of boosting the performance when paired with the P ZERO tyres’ lightness and speed. That siad, the brand points out that the benefits extend to all riders using a “clincher + inner tube” set up.

Bright yellow as per “tradition”, and available in a single version, which covers sizes ranging from 25-622 to 28-622, the new Pirelli SmarTUBE EVO comes with 3 different Presta valves, completely black: from 42 mm, 60 mm up to 80 mm for high-profile wheels.

SmarTUBE X: Robustness and high puncture resistance

Pirelli SmarTUBE X, on the other hand, is the new TPU inner tube designed specifically to partner with tyres of the Cinturato and Angel families

• 3 times thicker than the current Cinturato SmarTUBE (which it  replaces), the SmarTUBE X offers robustness and puncture resistance
• SmarTUBE X is particularly suitable for riding in city settings or for fast commuting.

SmarTUBE X comes in 2 separate lines:

• Angel SmarTUBE X for tyres from 28-622 to 42-622 and from 42-622 to 62-622, with Presta or Schrader valve options.
• Cinturato SmarTUBE X for tyres from 28-622 to 40-622 and from 40-622 to 50-622, with Presta or Schrader valves

The new SmarTUBE EVO and SmarTUBE X, in line with Pirelli’s TPU inner tube family, are extremely compact, reducing by 50% the space taken up in a jersey pockets, or saddle bag, compared to the traditional butyl inner tubes, while preserving – like the latter type – the necessary airtightness.

The first sizes are already available on the market, the range is expected to be complete by the end of September 2023.

In the UK, Pirelli tyres and tubes are distributed by Extra UK, who have recently announced the recruitment of a dedicated Pirelli Retail Specialist, Sam Moye to further strengthen the team.

 

Main image credit Gee Milner @geemilner