Air tube Newton 12" 1.75/1.90 schrader

12-inch inner tube: the essential component for small bike wheels

Whether for a children's bike, a balance bike, or a folding bike, the 12-inch inner tube plays a crucial role in the rider's comfort and safety. This often-overlooked component is essential for ensuring good road grip and preventing unexpected punctures. Here’s everything you need to know about this inner tube size and how to choose the right one.

What is a 12-inch inner tube ?

An inner tube is a flexible, airtight rubber tube placed inside the tire. It is inflated with air to maintain pressure and absorb road irregularities. The 12-inch inner tube corresponds to a diameter of 12 inches (approximately 30.5 cm) and is generally used on children's bikes and some scooters.

Characteristics of a 12-inch inner tube

When purchasing a 12-inch inner tube, several criteria must be considered:

• Diameter and width: the exact size of the inner tube must match the specifications written on the tire’s sidewall, such as 12 x 1.75 - 2.25, meaning it fits 12-inch diameter tires with a width between 1.75 and 2.25 inches.
• Valve type: there are several types of valves, the most common being:
  • Schrader valve (large valve): similar to car valves, it is durable and easy to inflate with a compressor.
  • Presta valve (thin valve): lighter, it requires a specific pump and is often used on high-performance bikes.
  • Dunlop valve: less common, mainly found on city bikes.
• Thickness and durability: some inner tubes are reinforced for better puncture resistance. Opt for a thicker model if you ride on rough terrain.

How to choose the right 12-inch inner tube ?

To ensure perfect compatibility with your tire, follow these recommendations:

1. Check your tire dimensions: make sure the inner tube size matches the markings on the tire sidewall (e.g., 12 x 1.75-2.25).
2. Select the appropriate valve type: the valve must be compatible with your bike pump and the rim’s valve hole.
3. Choose a reinforced inner tube if necessary: an anti-puncture model can be a great investment to reduce frequent punctures.

Maintaining and replacing a 12-inch inner tube

Even with a quality inner tube, good maintenance practices are essential for longevity:

• Regularly check tire pressure to prevent underinflation, which increases the risk of pinch flats.
• Inspect tires before each ride to spot any cuts or embedded objects.
• Use anti-puncture strips or sealant to minimize the risk of punctures.

In case of a puncture, replacing a 12-inch inner tube is a simple task. Just remove the tire, extract the damaged tube, check the inside of the tire to ensure no sharp objects remain, then install a new inner tube before reinflating everything.

Conclusion

The 12-inch inner tube is an essential component for ensuring comfort and safe riding on children's bikes and some folding bikes. By choosing a suitable inner tube and following good maintenance practices, you can extend its lifespan and prevent frequent punctures. Always keep a spare inner tube handy to avoid unpleasant surprises on your rides !