Schwalbe Launches New Aerothan Bike Tubes with 90 Percent Recycled Materials

German cycling accessory brand Schwalbe is introducing a new generation of Aerothan TPU bike inner tubes, made with over 90% recycled materials. These lightweight tubes, manufactured in Germany, boast 80% better puncture resistance and 20% improved protection against penetration compared to their standard Aerothan counterparts.

The new tubes are crafted using BASF's mass-balanced recycled TPU, sourced through an innovative recycling process. Schwalbe’s efforts to promote sustainability began in 2020, when the company partnered with Pyrum Innovations and TH Köln on a unique tire recycling project. A student intern at Schwalbe developed a thermochemical process to break down tires into reusable raw materials. The process produces pyrolysis oil, which is incorporated into BASF’s ChemCycling® program to create Ccycled® TPU for the new Aerothan tubes, replacing conventional crude oil as the raw material.

Schwalbe states that the process significantly enhances the environmental performance of its tubes, which are now 100% recyclable. Additionally, the valve stem and threaded section, once plastic, have been upgraded to aluminum, improving durability, structural stability, and compatibility.

The new Aerothan series will feature 39 models, including Plus versions for superior puncture protection. These sustainable bike tubes are set to launch this fall, offering cyclists an eco-friendly, high-performance choice.