Pirelli SmarTUBE RS: Lightweight TPU tube for greater rolling efficiency and speed

Pirelli's new SmarTUBE RS inner tube is here. The further development of the bicycle inner tube called SmartTUBE consists of a new TPU formulation, which should significantly reduce rolling resistance compared to its predecessor - this is the result of tests, which we describe further down in the article. As a result, the new SmarTUBE RS is faster, but at the same time should offer greater puncture resistance. This can be seen from the information on the manufacturer's data sheet. The new Pirelli SmarTUBE RS has a higher wall thickness than its predecessor. With these features, Pirelli aims to optimise efficiency, versatility and speed on the road. The SmarTUBE RS covers tyre widths from 26 to 35 millimetres and can therefore be used in both the road bike and gravel segments.

Technical details and area of application of the Pirelli SmarTUBE RS bicycle inner tube

With a weight of 32 grams for the 26/35-622 size and 42 millimetre valve length, Pirelli has positioned the SmarTUBE RS in the lightweight segment. The range of applications is versatile: it can be combined with both classic tyres and tubeless-ready tyres. In both setups, the SmarTUBE RS promises low rolling resistance, versatility and airtightness. The new tube is said to show its strengths particularly in combination with tubeless-ready tyres. According to Pirelli, this configuration achieves almost the performance of a completely tubeless set-up, but is easier to fit.

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Performance comparison and race performance

Pirelli has conducted internal tests to demonstrate the performance of the SmarTUBE RS. In combination with the P ZERO Race RS tyre for inner tubes, the new TPU tube is said to achieve a rolling resistance improvement of 12 percent compared to the traditional SmarTUBE. Compared to a classic butyl inner tube, the improvement is even said to be up to 24 per cent. Thanks to the reduced weight and the now comparable rolling performance to the tubeless setup, it is particularly suitable for time trials with inclines.

Availability and price

The new SmarTUBE RS is available in sizes 26/35-622. Pirelli offers the inner tube with Presta valves in lengths of 42, 60 and 80 millimetres. This variety of sizes covers tyre widths from 26 to 35 millimetres. The recommended retail price for the SmarTUBE RS is 29.90 euros. Pirelli states that the tube is now available online and in specialist shops. With this price, the SmarTUBE RS is positioned in the upper segment for high-performance bicycle inner tubes.

Pirelli SmarTUBE RS: Technical data & info

• Material: TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)
• Weight: 32 grams (size 26/35-622, 42 mm valve)
• Compatible tyre widths: 26-35 mm
• Available sizes: 26/35-622
• Valve lengths: 42 mm, 60 mm, 80 mm
• Valve type: Presta
• Price: 29.90 Euro (RRP)