At Escapa, we present the Tubolight Diamana XHD 27.5" Puncture Protection Strip (pair), the most advanced tire insert ever created. For the first time in cycling history, researchers have studied how air molecules move inside the tire as the casing deforms.
If we observe how the tire compresses and rebounds during an impact, we can see that the entire process is so rapid that the tire casing returns to its original shape even before the suspension begins to compress, creating inconsistent tire pressure on the ground—which results in poor traction.
This effect is amplified by high inflation pressure, but at the same time can be mitigated by reducing tire pressure—and in fact, this is why a less-inflated tire offers better traction.
The Tubolight Diamana XHD 27.5" (pair) Puncture-Resistant Band is a solution to eliminate this bounce and keep the tire at a constant pressure against the ground.
The side channels are shaped to create a Venturi effect, meaning that the airflow through the channels increases in speed as the channels become narrower. This is the same principle behind the ground effect in Formula 1 cars, and it is necessary to accelerate the air from the outer part of the insert to the inner part, between the insert and the rim base. The air becomes trapped in the inner portion and takes much longer to return to the outside, leaving very little air at the point of impact during shock absorption.
The dimples on the top of the insert—inspired by those on golf balls—along with the wavy shape, help prevent air from rebounding toward the tire and causing a strong rebound effect, instead directing it toward the side channels.
Rolling resistance: Third-party tests showed that rolling resistance on rough surfaces is reduced by up to 9%. Even taking into account the added weight of the inserts, this always translates to a faster climb.
Tire pressure on the ground: 60% higher, taking traction to a whole new level.
Vibration damping: 55% greater. Less fatigue and a more stable ride.
Durability:
Tubolight Diamana is made from high-density, closed-cell EVA foam. The density and hardness must be very high to maintain its shape during use and ensure a constant flow of air through the channels. This results in the most durable insert ever manufactured, with years of service life before replacement is needed, even after extended run-flat use.
Ease of Use:
Diamana is an easy-to-use device. Installation is very simple. Along with the EVO inserts, it is guaranteed to be 100% free of absorption by all sealants on the market and does not require specific valves.
Diamana XHD
New extra-heavy-duty size with a hard compound designed specifically for use with heavy, dual-ply tires.
Applications: Enduro, downhill, e-bikes.
Weight: 205 grams (27.5”)
