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The inner tube that self heals a puncture

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A puncture resistant inner tube sounds like the biking equivalent of the holy grail but tyre maker Michelin is giving it its best shot with the Protek Max inner tube.

Odd looking as it is, the uneven dimple design of the Protek Max inner tube will actually close a hole up if the tube is pierced. When the tube is fully inflated within the tire, the air pressure inside actually compresses a puncture closed, instead of blowing it further open. The dimples in the tube change the distribution of pressure across the tube’s surface. The inner tube has a built in sealant that aids the self plugging of any pierced hole in the tube.

Square profile

Now with the knobbly bits on the tube itself, you’d think it might be a of problem putting a tyre over the top. But the Protek Max has a square shaped profile, unlike any other inner tube on the market, and this actually eases the mounting of the tyre over the tube. The Protek Max also sits well on the wheel rim and will not twist like a tubular inner tube when inflated.

Award winning

The Protek Max was showcased at the Eurobike industry trade show last week where it won the Gold Award in accessories category.

The Protek Max is available in sizes of 700 x 35-47c and 26 x 1.4-2.1 which will suit commuter bike, hybrids and mountain bikes at a retail price of £6.99. No version for roadies just yet though.

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