# Tyre Knowledge
Tubes
Find answers on Tubes-related questions here
Learn more about Tubes-specific questions and how to improve your personal riding experience here.
What is an inner tube?
Traditional clincher tyres are not airtight, instead it is the inner tube that gets inflated and holds the air in the tyre. The inner tube is inflated through a valve, typically either a Presta or Schrader (car) type.
Are there different types of inner tubes?
Continental offers a range of different inner tubes, each using a construction and material that is best suited to the specific purpose:
Standard - available in all sizes and perfect for the demands of everyday riding.
Light & Supersonic - lighter, faster and great for racing.
Hermetic - strong, durable and a good option for touring
Freeride & Downhill - strong, bulky and extra thick, these are built for the demands of extreme riding
Which valve type is the right for me?
With our tubes which we offer with valve types from Sclaverand/French to Dunlop and Schrader you have all the options on hand to pick along your personal preference. Tendencially you would see Sclaverand a bit more often in Road and MTB whereas on Urban/Tour Dunlop and Schrader are a bit more present.
Tip: check you bicycle pump on hand to see whether the valves match.
What length of valve do I need?
This will be dependent on the depth of the rim profile. Deeper rims will require a longer valve length. You need a valve that is long enough to pass through the rim and still have enough showing to affix a pump for inflation. Valves are available in 42mm, 60mm and 80mm lengths. A Schrader valve will be shorter than a Presta type, just like the valve on your car tyre.
What can I do to prevent valves seating in the rim at the wrong angle?
Tyre movement may cause slanted valves which can be prevented in the first instance by a higher air pressure. Therefore check the operating pressure and the seating of the tyres at regular intervals. Tyres may slip along the wheel rim during braking, especially on mountain bikes. If using disk brakes, tyre movement is tendencially less prevalent as the brakes and wheel rims have no direct contact.
When should I replace my tubes?
Similar to tyres tubes shall be replaced from time to time as external factors such as heat and sun exposure can have an impact on aging. Whereas tubes might not be as exposed as tyres are carefully check tubes for any damaged or dried out areas.