How to choose your road bike valve extenders?

How to choose your road bike valve extenders?

Deep-section rims necessarily require longer valves than the standard 32 mm to inflate your tyre or tubular. For either type, you may need extenders if you have no choice over valve length. Here is how to choose them.

The standards

  • The type of extender: standard or extension type
  • Length: from 25 to 75 mm

Types of valve extenders

In the case of an inner tube setup, note that models with valves already adapted to the correct length exist. If however you have no choice, or if you are using a tubular, there are 2 types of fitting:

If the core of your valve is removable, you can fit an extender in extension form, which is placed between the valve body and the core. This is the most reliable fitting and allows you to lock the valve after use.

If the valve core is not removable, you can fit a standard extender, but this requires leaving the valve lock always open since you will no longer be able to access it.

Regarding length, several sizes exist depending on the height of your rim. Once fitted, at least 10 mm of valve must protrude so you can attach your pump.

Which valve extender should you choose?

If you have a removable valve core, opt for the extension type, which is far more reliable and straightforward to use.

Regarding length, you can remember that: rim height + 5/6 mm − original valve height = extender length.

    ROAD - Valve Extenders