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Bike tubes and tire liners

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Bike tubes and liners to help you with your ride

Bike tubes are the inflatable inner part of a bicycle tire that holds air and cushions your ride. Found inside most non-tubeless tires, a bike tube is usually made from butyl rubber or latex and is inflated through either a Presta or Schrader valve. Tubes come in different sizes to match various wheel diameters and tire widths, so it’s important to choose one that fits your setup. If the tube is too big or too small for your tire, it can affect performance and increase the risk of flats.

Why bike tubes matter

Bike tubes provide the pressure needed to support your weight and keep the tire’s shape, whether you're riding on pavement, gravel or dirt. Most flats happen because of a puncture in the tube, not the tire itself. That’s why many cyclists carry a spare tube or patch kit to make quick repairs on the go.

What is a tire liner?

Tire liners are thin strips of flexible material placed between the tube and the inside of the tire. They act as a protective barrier, helping to shield the tube from sharp objects like thorns, glass or jagged rocks. Liners are a simple and effective way to reduce the chances of punctures, especially on rugged trails or in urban areas.

MEC has plenty of bike tubes and tire liners from reliable brands like MEC Label, Rubbers and more.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know what size bike tube I need?

Tube size is based on your wheel diameter and tire width, which are usually printed on the side of your tire. A common road bike size might be 700 × 28 C, while mountain bikes often use sizes like 29 × 2.2. Make sure the tube size matches your tire specs for a proper fit and safe ride.

Can I patch a bike tube or should I replace it?

You can patch a tube if the hole is small and the rest of the tube is in good shape. Patching is a good backup when you're on the trail or road, but if your tube has multiple holes or looks worn, it’s best to replace it.

Are tire liners necessary?

Even with tough tires, small debris can still find its way through. Liners add an extra layer of defence, especially useful for city commuting, gravel riding or long-distance touring where a flat can be a big inconvenience.

Bike tubes and tire liners buyer’s guide

Pick the right size

The first step is matching the tube to your wheel and tire. Check the sidewall of your tire for numbers like “700 × 28 C” or “29 × 2.4” – these indicate the diameter and width range your tube needs to match. A tube that’s too small or too large won’t hold pressure properly and could lead to flats or poor performance.

Choose your valve type

Bike tubes come with either a Presta or Schrader valve. Presta valves are slimmer and typically used on road bikes or performance setups. Schrader valves are wider and common on mountain or hybrid bikes. It’s important to match the valve type to the hole in your rim.

Think about your riding style

If you’re a daily commuter or long-distance rider, go for durable tubes designed for higher puncture resistance. Weight-conscious road cyclists may prefer lightweight latex tubes, while casual riders often stick with standard butyl rubber for durability and value.