Hoping to improve and simplify the tubeless set up process, Schwalbe just added three new valves. Why three? As more road riders move to tubeless tires, deeper rims require longer valves. And instead of using a shorter valve and a valve extender, Schwalbe now offers three different length valves depending on your rim depth.
The shortest rims will make use of the 40mm tubeless valve which is threaded all the way to the base. In the middle, 30-50mm deep rims will use their new 60mm valve, while the deepest 50-85mm rims will make use of the longest valve at 100mm. Note that the two longer valves are not threaded all the way to the base, which is why Schwalbe provides range for the rim depth.
In order to give the valves better performance, a number of updates have been made including a wider inner diameter at the base. Moving from 2.4mm on the older valves (above, left), the new valves use a 4mm internal diameter (above, right) with a chamfered edge to allow better flow of air without sealant clogging the valve.
There’s also a 4mm allen key fitting at the base of the valve to help you install them. Schwalbe says that this allows you to adequately tighten the lock nut without over-tightening it.
The valve lock nut now features a larger o-ring which is meant to better conform to multiple rim shapes. The design also eliminates their previously required spacer sleeve. The bottom of the valve has a shorter cone which lets it sit deeper in the rim which is said to make tire installation easier as well.
Available at the end of end of July, the valves will be priced at €21.90 (40 mm),
€24.90 (60 mm), and €29.90 (100 mm).
