When to replace inner tubes

[benb]

So, thanks to my Marathon+ tyres, I haven't had a puncture for over 2 years. That means I've been riding the same tubes for 2 years, and about 3,500 miles. Should I change my tubes periodically?

 

[ianrauk]

No need.

 

[machew]

Only need to replace an inner tube when there is a hole bigger than your biggest patch, or the valve no longer stops air coming out

 

[benb]

No need.

Only need to replace an inner tube when there is a hole bigger than your biggest patch, or the valve no longer stops air coming out

Thanks. I was wondering if it was prudent to change them anyway. Doesn't the rubber perish eventually?

 

[ianrauk]

Thanks. I was wondering if it was prudent to change them anyway. Doesn't the rubber perish eventually?

It will take a very long while. And then again probably they would only perish if they are left outside in all weathers whilst flat.

 

[billy1561]

I agree with Ian but personally once mine have punctured I replace them. I only repair in emergency if I've used my spare tubes up. They are cheap enough to do so these days.

 

[totallyfixed]

In the good old days before good puncture resistant tyres came along I would often run tubes with half a dozen or even more patches on them, I have even patched a patch on occasion. I'm not tight you understand just because I have only changed the brake blocks once in 27,000 miles, mind they are looking a bit thin now...

 

[MrJamie]

Id change them if you ever get a puncture, because its so infrequent with M+ its hardly going to put you out of pocket. I also plan to put a fresh tube in when i replace the tyres, entirely unnecessarily no doubt but just liking the idea of nice fresh tubes with fresh tyres.

Also using M+, I stopped on my ride on Sunday and my friend noticed a drawing pin in my front tyre, no idea how long id taken that for a ride

 

[HovR]

Doesn't the rubber perish eventually?

When I received the Dawes in my display picture, it has been unused and sitting in a shed for 20 years, with flat tires. Even after 20 years of sitting unmoved, the tubes still held air and the tires were in a reasonable state. I replaced the tubes fairly quickly because they were so old, and the valve was bent on one of them, however since then I've done over 1000 miles on those tires and whilst the rear is getting near to needing replacing, the front is still running fine.

I think you've still got a few years to go before you need to start worrying about the rubber perishing!

 

[snorri]

New inner tubes should be fitted after 500 miles and the old tubes given to the poor sent to me.

 

[benb]

Thanks all

 

[cyberknight]

New inner tubes should be fitted after 500 miles and the old tubes given to the poor sent to me.

or me !!