Thermoplastic polyurethane changed what's possible in inner tube design, and Pirelli's P Zero SmarTUBE demonstrates why the material matters. TPU combines the elasticity needed to conform inside a tire with mechanical strength that resists punctures, and it does this at a fraction of the weight of traditional butyl rubber. The result is a tube weighing 35 grams that matches or exceeds the puncture resistance of standard butyl tubes while saving up to 70% of the weight. That weight reduction sits where it counts most: at the wheel, where rotational mass directly affects acceleration response and climbing efficiency.

The technology originated in Pirelli's World Tour tubular development program. Professional riders requested lighter tubulars without sacrificing reliability, and Pirelli's engineers responded by replacing the butyl bladder inside their P Zero Race Tub SL with a TPU construction. The SmarTUBE brings that same approach to clincher tires, making the performance benefits available to riders who prefer the convenience of a tube-and-tire setup or who need a spare tube for their tubeless wheels. When a tubeless tire won't seal properly mid-ride, a SmarTUBE gets you home without the bulk and weight penalty of carrying a standard butyl spare.

The 60mm Presta valve accommodates medium-profile rims common on modern road wheelsets. The valve stem is black, matching contemporary component aesthetics, while the tube itself comes in Pirelli's signature yellow for easy identification in your jersey pocket or saddle bag. Speaking of packing: the TPU construction compresses to roughly half the volume of a butyl tube, which matters when you're already carrying tools, nutrition, and phone alongside your spare. The size range covers 23mm through 32mm tire widths, spanning everything from traditional race rubber to the wider training tires that have become standard on endurance bikes.... Read More