Schrader rim using a presta tube

[Psycolist]

Since my interest in MTB riding has blossomed, I have tended to use Presta valved inner tubes, regardless of wether the rim is drilled for Schrader or Presta valves. That's getting on for 18 months now and I have had no issues. Now, in the last fortnight I have had two inner tubes fail around the base of the valve. So, my question is, have I been lucky up until now with not having had any problems, or have I previously been lucky by not having had any problems. Or, on the other hand, have I got a dodgy batch of tubes ? And while on the subject of tubes, is it really an issue using a tube rated up to a tyre size of size of 2.125, on a 2.2 tyre ? ? The price difference is quite noticeable between the larger and 'regular' tubes.

 

[S.Giles]

I can't answer your question, but I have made up the difference between valve and rim with a metal washer in the past, and not had a problem.

 

[sittingbull]

Some people are lucky and never have a problem. I've had a failure around the valve and looked at the available adaptors. They're not cheap for what they are and these 3/8" rubber grommets are a cost effective alternative. Can't claim the credit for this myself as it appears to be common practice.

I have one inserted on the inner wall (tube side) of each wheel rim. I use one of the presta valve threaded (circular) nuts - the ones many people discard, against the visible side of the rim hole to centre the valve and give a little extra support when attaching the track pump. Some have a concave shoulder which fits the hole nicely

I haven't used tubes the sizes you mention but can't see a problem.

 

[Tim Hall]

Schwalbe presta valve rings have a wee ridge on them. This is the correct diameter to locate securely in the Schraeder sized valve hole.

You'll be fine with a 2.125 inch tube in a 2.2 inch tyre.

 

[Moodyman]

you've been lucky. The presta valve will have some movement and over time that slight movement will have caused rubbing on the tube along the valve.

You can get little gromits that close the gap . Mavic do them for some of their rims.

alternatively cut bits of old inner tube fold in half and cut semi circle so when you open, it has a circle which you push down to the valve itself. This acts as a good barrier to the aforementioned rubbing,

 

[Ticktockmy]

Sometimes I think you get a dodgy batch of tubes, a couple of years ago, I spent about £30 on replacement inner tubes within a week, every time I went out on the Bike, ride about 1K and bang the valve ripped out, same tyres, same tyre pressure as usual, then it stopped and nothing has happened since, fingers crossed. Presta valves really need to have the Schraeder adaptor fitted as there will too much movement,

 

[Psycolist]

Thanks everyone. On the matter of price of the fatter tubes, I found that Halfords are doing 26 X1.75 - 2.4 schraeder valved tubes on line at less than £3. I did an order 'for collection' and the cashier had to double check the price as the in store price was a lot more ! ! !