Rim Tape

Buying Rim Tape – Protect Your Inner Tube from Punctures

A good rim tape is essential if you want to ride worry-free. This thin yet sturdy tape covers the spoke holes in your rim and prevents your inner tube from getting damaged. Without rim tape, you run a higher risk of flat tires. Whether you have a road bike, mountain bike, or city bike, the right rim tape makes a big difference. At Hollandbikeshop.com, you will find a wide range, delivered quickly and always at a competitive price.
 

What is Rim Tape and Why Do You Need It?

Rim tape is a protective tape that you apply to the inside of the rim. It prevents the inner tube from coming into contact with sharp spoke holes or burrs in the rim. Without rim tape, your inner tube can be pushed into small holes due to air pressure, which can lead to a flat. This applies to all bicycles, from road bikes to e-bikes. A good rim tape extends the life of your inner tube and ensures a more comfortable ride.
 

What Types of Rim Tape Are There?

There are different types of rim tape, depending on the type of bike and riding conditions.
•    Rubber Rim Tape: Elastic and easy to install. Suitable for city bikes and e-bikes.
•    Textile Rim Tape: Very strong and durable. Often used for mountain bikes and road bikes.
•    Plastic Rim Tape: Lightweight and sturdy. Popular among road bikes due to its low weight.
•    Tubeless Rim Tape: Specifically designed for tubeless tires. Provides an airtight seal and prevents leakage.

The width and thickness of the rim tape are also important. A tape that is too narrow offers insufficient protection, while a tape that is too wide may not fit well in the rim.
 

What to Look for When Buying Rim Tape?

•    Width: The rim tape must have the correct width for your rim. This is usually between 15 and 25 mm.
•    Material: Choose a material that suits your bike usage. For daily use, rubber is fine, while mountain bikers may prefer textile MTB rim tape.
•    Pressure Resistance: Road bikes need rim tape that can withstand high tire pressure.
•    Tubeless or Not: Using tubeless tires? Then you need a special tubeless rim tape.

It is wise to check from time to time whether the rim tape is still properly positioned. Over time, it can wear out or shift, which can cause leaks.
 

The Best Brands for Rim Tape

There are several brands that make high-quality rim tape:
•    Velox: Known for high-quality textile rim tape. Very suitable for road bikes and mountain bikes.
•    Herrmans: Produces strong and flexible rubber rim tapes, ideal for city bikes.
•    Schwalbe: Makes both standard and tubeless Schwalbe rim tape. Suitable for high tire pressure.
•    Contec: Contec rim tape is affordable and reliable, with rim tapes for various types of bikes.

Rim tape from a good brand lasts longer and prevents unnecessary flat tires.
 

Buy Rim Tape at Hollandbikeshop.com

Looking for the right rim tape for your bike? At Hollandbikeshop.com, you will find a large assortment, from rubber rim tapes to tubeless variants. Order easily online and benefit from fast delivery. Check out the selection above and choose the rim tape that best fits your bike!
 

Frequently Asked Questions about Rim Tape

How wide should rim tape be?

The rim tape should be as wide as the inside of the rim, usually between 15 and 25 mm. A tape that is too narrow offers insufficient protection, while a tape that is too wide may curl up.
 

How long does rim tape last?

Rim tape can last for years, but it is good to check it regularly. Wear, cracks, or shifts can indicate that your rim tape needs replacing.
 

Can I use tubeless rim tape for a regular inner tube?

Yes, but it is not ideal. Tubeless rim tape is often thicker and can cause problems when mounting an inner tube.
 

How do I know if my rim tape is worn out?

Check for cracks, shifts, or worn spots. If you frequently get flat tires without a clear cause, worn rim tape may be the culprit.
 

How do I install rim tape?

Place the rim tape tightly over the rim and ensure it is well-centered. Press it down firmly and make sure the valve hole remains clear. For self-adhesive rim tape, gradually peel off the protective layer while applying. You do not need any bike tools for this task.

Hollandbikeshop.com is the number 1 bike shop for bike parts, rim tape, and accessories such as bike bells.