Valve Extensions for 80mm Wheels

JaRok2300 · Joined: 01 May 2014 Posts: 461 Location: Worcester, UK

I know this topic has come up a few times and I have searched the past threads but not seen this particular question discussed.

I've recently got some SRAM S80 wheels (10sp I'm still in the dark ages and happy there) after running HED 40f/60r previously.

On the HEDs I just used 80mm valves front and back so had no need for extensions, albeit I must have been giving away a gram of drag on the front Wink

I can't find anything longer than 80mm so will need some sort of extensions on the S80s and was wondering if there is any benefit to short valve/long extension or long valve/short extension. I'm even thinking that the 80mm valve might be close enough to the top to only use an extension for inflation and then remove it in use but I haven't tried that yet.

They currently have Topeak extensions with a little button on the top to free up the core if it's stuck but these seem to get pretty poor reviews for disintegrating on a regular basis. I'm leaning towards removable cores as I usually find I have to give the valve core a little press to release it before I can get any air in most presta valves, and if the core is somewhere at the bottom of the extension this wouldn't be possible.

Anyone in a similar position and what's your preference?
Thanks

JeffB · Joined: 04 May 2008 Posts: 1406 Location: Middlesbrough

My 808's are a PITA for this and I've considered selling them.

But, I originally bought Zipp Tangente tubes and their own extenders, you remove the core from the original tube, screw on the extension and screw the core into it.

Actually works really well without much leakage, but I think they might have discontinued them.

You could check out the time trialling forum, someone else there might have a solution.

I've tried a few others but always had issues inflating them.

Jeff

Poet · Joined: 13 Apr 2007 Posts: 10148 Location: Your Mum

Planet X do a 101mm rim.
Which I have.
They also do the 100mm valve extenders to match.
For 1.99.

You need removable cores.
4 for 2.99 from CRC.

https://www.planetx.co.uk/i/q/WSPXVE/planet-x-valve-extender

Use PTFE tape on the extensions for zero leakage

JaRok2300 · Joined: 01 May 2014 Posts: 461 Location: Worcester, UK

You need removable cores.
4 for 2.99 from CRC.

Thanks Poet

Can you clarify the comment above re buying the cores. I was under the impression you removed the core from the inner tube and put it in the extension instead. By buying extra cores does that mean you can use non removable inner tubes and just leave the valve unscrewed, adding the extra ones to the extension? Effectively having 2 valves, 1 permanently unscrewed and one you use in the normal way?

Poet · Joined: 13 Apr 2007 Posts: 10148 Location: Your Mum

I’ll start from fresh:

You use the open ended extensions with non removable cores and the core valve underneath left opened.

The better (IMHO) extensions are the ones for the removable cores.
Remove the core from the tube. Put the extension on, using PTFE tape and the supplied rubber ring. Then screw the valve core into the extension.

Magic.

Buying extra cores :- I snapped one whilst repairing a tub at the roadside on Good Friday. So I had to get a rescue vehicle.
So carry spare cores.

JaRok2300 · Joined: 01 May 2014 Posts: 461 Location: Worcester, UK

That makes sense, thanks again.

Doca · Joined: 27 Feb 2014 Posts: 256

Not directly related but I carried a CO2 pump for ages that screwed on to the valve. Found out first time I used it that it's nearly impossible to get it off without it unscrewing the removable core and when it does you are fu**ed without a pair of pliers as you can't get the core out of the pump & you have already wasted your co2 canister.

Make sure your CO2 pump is a push fit!

JaRok2300 · Joined: 01 May 2014 Posts: 461 Location: Worcester, UK

So I had a little play around at the weekend and this where I've ended up. The picture shows an 80mm valve inner tube with no extension, just as it comes from the box.

I can inflate it by screwing a short extension on and then removing once it's pumped up to lock down the valve core. Obviously I'll need to carry one with me along with a spare tube but it does away with any chance of leaks or failures whilst riding and isn't much more trouble to inflate if/when needed.

Poet · Joined: 13 Apr 2007 Posts: 10148 Location: Your Mum

LUCKY!!!
That’s a nice solution.
Needs some black electrical tape over it, to stop it clanging

JaRok2300 · Joined: 01 May 2014 Posts: 461 Location: Worcester, UK

Poet · Joined: 13 Apr 2007 Posts: 10148 Location: Your Mum

Jammy so-and-so.
That’s really clean.