Airless System is the name of the new alternative to the classic air tube. So-called solid tubes already existed or exist from other manufacturers, but Schwalbe's new solution is supposedly still unusual - because of the Infinergy particle foam from BASF used in the tyres, which is already used in sports shoe soles and bicycle saddles.
The magic words that make the difference to previous similar systems are "increased resilience": the foam used returns to its original position around twice as quickly after compression as previous solid tubes. Even constant rolling or extreme temperature fluctuations should not have much effect on the material, which consists of thousands of small air beads.
The airless tyre is not for everyone
You should not expect the rolling resistance of an inner tube tyre. The new tyre is probably particularly interesting for scenarios where freedom from maintenance has priority or where the customer simply does not want to pump or patch. Rental bike providers or commuters could fall into this target group. Cyclists for whom performance and balanced tyre play are important should probably stick with the inner tube.
Installation only in specialised shops
Only dealers certified by Schwalbe can and may fit the new tyres. To do this, they need a special machine with which they can set up a tyre in around five to ten minutes. The system is only approved for certain rims - namely those with a rim width of 19-21 millimetres. The recommended retail price for an airless system for a wheel - consisting of a tyre, tube and ring - will be 84.90 euros. The airless system will be available from May.
