Created for lightweight road or gravel bikes, absoluteBLACK is calling the Aethers the lightest tubeless valve that exists. There is more to these valves than just the lack of weight: They also use an interesting core design.
But come on. 2g carbon fiber tubeless valves? You know you already want them!
absoluteBLACK Aether carbon composite tubeless valves
Despite their featherweight construction, absoluteBLACK says the Aether valves maintain everyday durability. Their carbon-reinforced polymer composite construction offers lower density than aluminum, but also allows for more design freedom. Shapes that would be difficult to make with CNC machines are possible with the composite construction. Without getting too specific, absoluteBLACK says their method allows for “more refined internal geometry”. And the valves’ seals are made from traditional rubber, to ensure reliable air retention.
Partly to keep weight to a minimum, the Aether valves use a bottom-sealing mechanism instead of a traditional valve core. This design was inspired by an early valve design from way back in 1915. This keeps the internal valve design simpler, provides a larger air channel to reduce clogging, and offers a more direct internal air path. Rest assured, these valves are fully compatible with normal Presta pump heads, and with all rims drilled for Presta valves.
absoluteBLACK points out that the Aether valves were not specifically designed for increased airflow vs. traditional valves (as several MTB tubeless valves have trended towards recently). So, likely you’d expect pretty standard airflow. Instead, these are intended for weight savings at the wheels, incrementally reducing rotating mass where it matters most.
Real weights of 2.6g or 3.1g with valve caps
Two lengths are available. One for 18-30mm rim depths, and one for 30-50mm deep rims. The shorter size weighs just 2.6g, including the valve cap, and the longer option hits the scale at a mere 3.1g.
The construction of these valves is patent-pending. And the external design is already protected by patents. MSRP is $29.95 per pair, which seems like a surprisingly good value for what might just be the World’s Lightest tubeless valves!
