Sustainable bike upgrades: save the planet with TPU inner tubes
View up to the peak. Cycling in Madeira, October 2022.
Part of the reason we love cycling is its purity: body and machine in harmony and completely sustainable. As such, we're always looking for ways to improve our riding experience, while minimising our impact on the environment. One way to achieve this is by choosing sustainable materials when upgrading or replacing bike parts, such as by switching to TPU inner tubes by RideNow.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a versatile material that's commonly used today in manufacturing bike components like inner tubes, tires, and even frames. But what makes TPU sustainable, and how does it benefit cyclists?
Plant-based
TPU is made from renewable sources like plant-based oils and non-toxic chemicals, making it an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based synthetic rubbers and plastics. RideNow offers a variety of lightweight TPU inner tubes for road and gravel weighing in the region of 20-50g. These inner tubes not only offer improved performance and puncture-resistance, but they’re also environmentally friendly, making them a great choice for cyclists who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Recycling
TPU is recyclable and biodegradable, meaning that it can be repurposed or broken down naturally at the end of its lifecycle. This is important for reducing waste and minimising the environmental impact of our bike components.
Ride experience
TPU is lightweight and flexible, making it an ideal material for bike components that need to be both durable and comfortable. When used in inner tubes and tires, TPU provides a smooth ride and reduces the risk of punctures, improving the overall performance of your bike.
Conclusion
So, if you're someone who’s interested in sustainable performance-oriented bike upgrades, you can’t go wrong with TPU-based components like our RideNow inner tube. Not only will you be reducing your impact on the environment, but you'll also be enhancing your ride experience with lightweight and durable materials.
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