Vittoria has overhauled its Airliner road tyre tubeless insert, saying that the new Airliner Light Road improves performance, is easier to install and more reliable. The 30g to 40g claimed weight remains the same as the previous insert, so Vittoria claims a negligible impact on bike weight and rolling resistance.
Tyre inserts have become common on pro bikes in races, improving the tyre stability and protecting the rim, as well as helping to keep the tyre in place if it gets a flat.
According to Andreas Klier, technical operations and commercial manager at EF Education-EasyPost: ‘In races like the Northern Classics, it gives us greater control and confidence on rough roads and pavé, letting us ride at lower pressures without compromising performance or safety.’
At normal pressures, Vittoria says that the insert is compressed, but any air loss results in it expanding to fill the tyre volume. If you do get a flat, the insert is claimed to allow you to keep riding for up to 50km, although with support that Vittoria likens to a tyre inflated to 14 psi / 1 bar, probably fairly carefully into corners.
Another claimed benefit is the option to run lower tyre pressure for added grip and comfort.
Vittoria says that its updated insert is extruded rather than cut and that this ensures that the liner’s closed cell foam is more uniform, with a smoother outer surface that reduces friction in the tyre, making installation easier and ensuring correct seating.
This in turn results in a 10% reduction in the sealant needed, as the foam doesn’t absorb it so much. Vittoria suggests the sealant volume can be reduced to as little as 10ml, reducing rolling mass.
At lower pressures, there’s a risk of tubeless tyres burping air, but Vittoria says that the Airliner Light Road will reduce this by 28% over running without an insert. It claims a 5% reduction in the risk of burping relative to its previous insert.
Vittoria Airliner Light Road specs and prices
Vittoria sells the new Airliner Light Road in three sizes to fit different tyre and rim widths, with compatibility with both hooked and hookless rims:
- 700×28-30, fitting rims from 20 to 25mm internal width. Weight 30g
- 700×32-36, fitting rims from 21 to 27mm internal width. Weight 35g
- 700×38-42, fitting rims from 23 to 28mm internal width. Weight 40g
All sizes are priced at €59.95 / $77.99 and are supplied with a 60mm Vittoria Multiway tubeless valve. UK pricing to be communicated.
The updated Airliner Light Road completes Vittoria’s Airliner range, which also includes options for gravel, cyclocross and mountain bike use.