If you’re riding with the Sharks, you’ll need to carry a spare inner tube every ride. But bike tubes aren’t one-size-fits-all, they come in different diameters and widths to match your tires. Don’t worry, it’s easy to figure out what you need.
Here’s how to find the right size inner tube for your bike:
1. Check the Sidewall of Your Tire
Look closely at the side of your tire. You’ll see numbers that look something like this:
29 x 2.25 or 27.5 x 2.4
- The first number is the wheel diameter (in inches): 26”, 27.5”, or 29”
- The second number is the tire width (also in inches)
You’ll need a tube that matches both of these numbers, or falls within the width range.
2. Match the Tube to the Tire
Tube packaging will list a size range like:
29 x 1.9–2.3
That tube would work for any tire with a 29” wheel and a width between 1.9” and 2.3”.
If your tire says 29 x 2.25, this tube would work perfectly. If it says 29 x 2.6, it would not.
3. Don’t Forget the Valve Type
Most mountain bikes use Presta valves (the long, skinny ones). But check your bike to be sure. Schrader valves are thicker and look like car tire valves. You’ll want a tube with the right valve for your rims.
Where to Buy Inner Tubes
We recommend picking up your tubes at Syracuse Bicycle, located at 2540 Erie Blvd East, Syracuse, NY 13224
Their staff can look at your tire size and make sure you get the right tube. If you’re not sure what to buy, just take a picture of the numbers on your tire and show them at the counter.
Bonus Tip: Bring a Ziplock – A spare tube can be packed small and carried in a Ziploc bag or tool wrap so it stays clean and dry in your backpack, seat bag, or frame bag.
Here’s a helpful video from REI if you’d like tubes explained further.
