Looking for a reliable replacement tube for my 700c commuter or touring bike that balances durability and value?
First Impressions
I remember opening the box and noticing the neat, factory-sealed packaging right away. The pair of tubes felt light but solid, and I immediately appreciated that Continental packaged them in a way that suggested quality control and attention to detail.
Product Specifications
I like to get the specs front and center so I know what I’m dealing with before I fit anything to a bike. These tubes are labeled as Continental Tour 28 700×32-47 / 28×1.5-1.75″ – 42mm Presta Valve – Pack of 2 Tubes, and they come new in factory packaging. The construction is seamless with mold-cured vulcanization intended to ensure uniform roundness.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Continental Tour 28 700×32-47 / 28×1.5-1.75″ – 42mm Presta Valve – Pack of 2 Tubes |
| Size Range | 700×32-47 mm (aka 28 x 1.5–1.75″) |
| Valve Type | Presta valve, 42 mm length |
| Construction | Seamless, mold-cured vulcanization for uniform roundness |
| Quantity | Pack of 2 inner tubes |
| Packaging | New, factory packaging |
| Intended Use | Touring, commuting, recreational road riding (wider 700c tires) |
Construction and Materials
I value the description that mentions “seamless construction” and “mold-cured vulcanization” because those are tangible signs of consistent manufacturing. In practice, that means the tube should have even wall thickness and a uniform round profile which reduces the risk of weak spots and irregular inflation behavior. The rubber compound Continental uses for their Tour line feels like standard but quality-grade butyl rubber — not fancy latex, but reliable and long-lasting.
Valve Details
Having a 42 mm Presta valve is a practical middle ground for many rims, especially with rim tape and rim depth variations. I like that the valve is long enough to clear many deeper rims without needing an extender, and the Presta design is compatible with the majority of floor pumps and track pumps I use. I always check valve threading and the valve core seating; in these tubes the valve cores are secure and the valve stems are straight and centered, which makes pumping and sealing easier.
Sizing and Compatibility
The listed size range, 700×32-47 mm (which corresponds to 28 x 1.5–1.75″), covers a broad span of common touring and commuter tires. I found these tubes fit comfortably inside tires at both the lower 32 mm width and at the upper 47 mm range without unusual bunching. For wider 700c tires I ride for commuting and light touring, the fit is appropriate and gives a bit of flexibility if I switch tire widths seasonally.
Unboxing and Packaging
When I opened the package, both tubes were neatly folded and wrapped as expected from a factory-sealed product. The packaging protected the valves and prevented any accidental punctures during shipping. I always check for visible deformities and seam irregularities; these tubes arrived clean, with no signs of manufacturing damage or stress.
Mounting the Tube
I typically mount tubes on the bench first, and these were easy to seat into the tire bead without any sticking or rolling. Because of the uniform roundness from mold-cured vulcanization, I noticed fewer issues with bunching during installation. I partially inflated the tube to give it shape, inserted the valve through the rim hole, and then worked the tire bead over the rim. The process was straightforward, and I could finish installation without using leverage or risking pinches.
Inflation and Seating
I inflated one tube to the recommended pressure range for a 35 mm tire as my baseline test, and the tube seated evenly with no lumpy spots. The pressure held well during a 24-hour observation period with only minimal, expected loss due to ambient temperature changes. I appreciate that the 42 mm valve is long enough to attach a pump head without leaning at an angle that could cause stress at the valve base.
Comfort and Absorption
Riding with these tubes installed offered a compliant feel over potholes and rougher surfaces. Since the tube is butyl, the inherent damping is slightly higher than latex alternatives, which translated to a comfortable ride at the inflation pressures I prefer for commuting. I noticed that the tube contributes to a stable ride quality when I hit cracks and uneven road surfaces.
Rolling Resistance and Speed
I focus on real-world rolling resistance rather than lab numbers. With the tire mounted and inflated to appropriate pressures, I didn’t notice any unusual drag caused by the tube itself. Continental’s construction seems to keep the tube round and minimizes extra deformation that can add rolling resistance. For everyday commuting and touring paces, the difference between these butyl tubes and higher-end options was minimal and acceptable.
Puncture Resistance and Durability
These tubes aren’t labeled as “puncture-proof” and I don’t expect them to stop glass or large shards, but the construction does give some confidence for durability. In my experience, butyl tubes like these handle repeated minor impacts well and can last through seasons of use if paired with a decent tire. The seamless mold-cured manufacturing reduces seam failures, which is a common point of weakness on cheaper tubes.
Leak Resistance and Valve Reliability
I tested for slow leaks by submerging an inflated tube in water and watching for bubbles. These tubes showed no telltale bubbles from the rubber body or valve stem, indicating good initial airtightness. The valve nut is present and tightens against the rim to keep the stem secure; I also tested removing and reseating the pump head multiple times and didn’t experience issues with valve core seating.
Fit with Different Tire Types
I tried these tubes in both 32–35 mm slick commuter tires and a more aggressive 38–45 mm touring tire. The tubes adapted to both profiles without undue stress or folding. I always ensure the rim width and tire diameter are compatible, and for these widths, the tube seems appropriately sized for typical 700c rims used on hybrids, touring bikes, and many gravel bikes.
Presta Valve Length and Pump Compatibility
The 42 mm Presta valve avoids the common issue of being too short for deeper rims while not being so long that it flops or gets damaged easily. I could use my standard floor pump without an extender and attach a CO2 head when I wanted to do a quick roadside inflation. I did have to use a valve core tool a couple of times when checking for valve core snugness, and everything functioned smoothly.
Installation Tips I Use
When I install these tubes, I partially inflate them to about 10–15 psi so they take shape and avoid pinching. I always run a thin layer of talc or baby powder on the tube to reduce friction between the tire casing and tube; that helps during deformation and reduces the risk of chafing. I also check the rim tape and inside of the tire carefully to remove any embedded debris before final inflation.
Comparison with Other Continental Tubes
Continental’s higher-end tubes (like their Race or Supersonic lineup) offer lighter weight and sometimes different rubber compounds. In comparison, these Tour tubes are more budget-oriented and built for durability over performance. I find them to be a good middle ground: heavier and more robust than racing tubes, but lighter and more refined than the cheapest no-name tubes.
Comparison with Generic Brand Alternatives
Generic tubes can be cheaper but often skimp on seam quality and valve centering. I’ve had generic tubes with off-center valves that made inflation and seating annoying. With Continental, I felt I was paying a bit more for consistent quality and fewer installation headaches. For me, the cost difference is justified by the reliability and lower risk of early failure.
Who This Tube Is For
I would recommend these tubes to riders who want a dependable, fairly-priced inner tube for commuting, touring, or everyday use on 700c bikes with tire widths between 32 and 47 mm. They’re ideal for riders who prioritize durability and ease of installation over ultra-lightweight performance. If I were outfitting a commuter fleet or preparing for a long tour, these would be the tubes I’d consider for a balance of cost and reliability.
Who Should Consider Something Else
If I were racing or chasing every gram, I’d look at latex or ultralight race tubes from specialized lines. If a rider needs puncture-proof technology like thicker sealant-filled tubes, this is not the product for that specific need — though pairing these tubes with a good puncture-resistant tire often yields a happy medium for many riders.
Pros
I track the pros of a product so I can reference them later, and for these tubes I note:
- Reliable, factory-sealed quality and consistent roundness.
- Broad size range that fits many 700c tires from 32 to 47 mm.
- 42 mm Presta valve that works well with many rim depths.
- Durable butyl construction with good puncture and aging resistance for everyday use.
- Pack of two provides good value for replacement needs.
Cons
I also note downsides to make an honest assessment:
- Not the lightest option available; racers may prefer lighter tubes.
- No built-in sealant or puncture-proof technology.
- Butyl rubber won’t provide the suppleness or rolling advantages of latex.
Maintenance Tips and Troubleshooting
I keep a small kit with a few of these tubes, a pump, tire levers, and a patch kit in case of roadside issues. For maintenance, I recommend storing tubes in a cool, dry place; prolonged heat and direct sunlight can degrade rubber. If I notice a slow leak, I check the valve core first, tighten it, and if that doesn’t fix it I squeeze soapy water around the valve base to detect bubbles.
Repairing a Puncture
If I get a flat from a small puncture, I either replace the tube with a fresh one or patch it if I’m in a situation where I need to conserve spares. Patch kits work well on butyl tubes; I roughen the area lightly, apply adhesive and a patch, and allow an appropriate cure time before re-inflating. I’m careful to feel inside the tire for the object that caused the puncture and remove it to avoid a repeat incident.
Checking for Slow Leaks
A practical trick I use is to inflate the tube to a moderate pressure and listen close to the valve and tube surface for hissing, or submerge it in water to look for bubbles. I also check the area around the valve and the rim tape for potential pinch points. Slow leaks sometimes stem from rim tape failure or a sharp spoke hole that can slice a tube over time.
Packaging, Value, and Price
For the price I paid, I find the pack-of-two format reasonable and convenient. Continental isn’t the cheapest brand, but I’m paying for consistent manufacturing standards and a brand reputation that reduces the chance of encountering a dud tube. The value is particularly good if I plan to do multiple rides or have the tubes on hand for weekend trips.
Real-World Use Cases
I use these tubes on my city bike for daily commuting and occasional longer rides where durability and reliability matter more than weight savings. On a weekend tour with panniers and heavier loads, I prefer a tube with a bit more robustness like this Tour line because the risk of pinch flats and rim strikes increases under load. For a training ride where weight matters, I’ll usually swap in something lighter, but for general purpose and practicality these tubes fit many needs.
Environmental and Longevity Considerations
In my experience, a well-kept butyl tube like these will often outlast cheaper tubes, meaning fewer replacements and less waste over time. I keep old tubes for emergency patches and repurpose unusable tubes for strap material or craft projects. If long-term sustainability is a priority, choosing a durable tube and maintaining it properly reduces overall environmental impact.
Personal Anecdotes and Observations
Once, during a multi-day ride, I had to swap a tube mid-ride and the spare Continental tube performed perfectly — quick inflation, no wobble, and the valve stayed secure. That kind of reliability is what I’ve come to expect and appreciate from a trusted brand. On another occasion, I used one as a stopgap while waiting for a better-quality tube; it performed well enough that I kept it in rotation.
Final Verdict
I find the Continental Tour 28 700×32-47 / 28×1.5-1.75″ – 42mm Presta Valve – Pack of 2 Tubes to be a solid, practical choice for riders who need dependable tubes for commuting, touring, and general 700c use. They offer consistent manufacturing, a flexible size range, and a valve length that suits most modern rims. While they won’t satisfy extreme weight-conscious racers or riders seeking puncture-sealant solutions, they strike a good balance between price, durability, and performance for day-to-day cycling.
FAQ
Q: Will these tubes fit my 700c tire that’s labeled 40 mm? A: Yes — the 700×32-47 mm range covers a 40 mm tire, so these tubes are well suited for that size.
Q: Do I need a valve extender for deep rims? A: At 42 mm, the Presta valve is long enough for many rims, but very deep rims (typically 50 mm+ profiles) may still require an extender.
Q: Can I use sealant with these tubes? A: These are butyl tubes; you can use liquid sealant if desired, but install procedures vary and sealant can make future repairs trickier. If you plan to use sealant, make sure valve cores are removable and compatible.
Q: Are these tubes tubeless-compatible? A: No — these are inner tubes intended for traditional clincher tires, not tubeless setups.
Q: How long do these tubes last? A: Lifespan depends on usage and conditions, but with proper maintenance I’ve had similar tubes last multiple seasons for commuting and touring.
If you want, I can walk through step-by-step installation notes, recommend matching tires for specific use cases, or compare this pack directly against a couple of alternate tube models I know well.
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