What is TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)?

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a class of polyurethane plastics with outstanding properties, including elasticity, resistance to oil, grease, and abrasion. Technically, they are thermoplastic elastomers consisting of linear segmented block copolymers composed of hard and soft segments.

TPU bicycle inner tubes are highly elastic, which not only reduces rolling resistance but also increases its puncture resistance. What’s more, they also have impressive air retention despite its light weight and can be packed incredibly small as when carried as spare tube. Naturally TPU inner tubes can be patched up in the event of a tire puncture with a specific repair kit that are also sold bike shops.