Motorcycle Tubes

It’s the sound that’ll sink your heart: “hiss.” A puncture isn’t the end of the world, but it will require new motorcycle tire tubes before you can get back on the road. The tried and true tube makes the wheel go ‘round and is generally maintenance-free until it’s time to top off with air or be replaced. Cycle Gear’s selection of the best tubes are budget-friendly and will easily match your rim and riding style. Enduro tubes, for example, are built to withstand the toughest bumps in the trail while street tubes place plenty of value in balancing. We recommend reading up on this deep dive into the world of motorcycle tires and tubes then checking out the heavy-duty options Cycle Gear has in stock.

Steps in Selection

Even the best tubes have plenty in common with what’s used in bicycles. We mention this as a confidence-booster to those about to break out the tire irons and get to work. The process of replacing a tube from a conventional spoked dirt bike tire is as easy as breaking the bead, removing and replacing the tire and then slipping a new tube in. (The steps for a tubeless tire change can be found here.) When it comes time to find the best tubes for the job, there are a number of factors to consider. There are heavy-duty tubes designed to resist puncture and made from natural rubber blends. These are great for motocross riders who’ll adjust pressure depending on track surface and have to keep possible pinches in mind when racing. There are also street-specific inner tubes that tout design features such as overlap slices and construction elements that help reduce tears in hot conditions while offering robust valve stems. Be sure to read product descriptions in full, as some inner tubes are marked for being used off-road only!

If you have a spoked wire wheel, chances are there’s a tube keeping things inflated. Spoke nipples aren’t air-tight so a fully functional wheel relies on the tube. There’s nothing inherently dangerous about tubed tires, either, so don’t think a beefy tubeless option is any less prone to flats. We’ve all heard the “hiss” at some point, and having spare inner tubes in your tank bag or in the garage can quickly rectify things. As an additional option, Cycle Gear proudly offers tube replacement and tire-mounting at many of its stores. Learn more about this service here!