One of the things you’ll need to decide when buying inner tubes is the valve length. Too short, and you can’t insert the inflator head. Too long, and it’ll look ugly.
What’s the ideal Presta valve length you need?
This article shows how valve length is measured, the common length available, and how to determine the ideal length for your wheels.
What valve length do I need?
The ideal valve length is 15mm longer than the rim depth. This allows you to insert the pump inflator head to pump up the tires. That doesn’t mean the longer, the better. While it works, it’ll look ugly.
Depending on the valve length brand, not all lengths are available. Instead, opt for the next longer valve length.
| Rim depth | Valve length |
|---|---|
| 25mm | 40mm |
| 30mm | 50mm |
| 35mm | 50mm |
| 40mm | 60mm |
| 45mm | 60mm |
| 50mm | 70mm |
| 55mm | 70mm |
| 60mm | 80mm |
| 70mm | 100mm |
| 80mm | 100mm |
Here are some commonly used inner tube valve lengths available.
- Continental – 40, 60, 80mm
- Kenda – 32, 48, 60mm
- Michelin 40, 52, 60, 80mm
- Specialized – 48, 60, 80mm
- Silca – 40, 70mm
For tubeless Presta valves, the lengths are slightly different, as one end of the valve will sit beneath the rim.
- Effetto Mariposa – 40, 70, 100mm
- Muc Off – 44mm, 66mm, 80mm
- WTB – 34, 46mm
- Peaty’s – 42, 60mm
How to measure the valve length?
You can use a ruler or caliper to measure the length of the valve stem, from the base where it meets the tire to the end of the valve, excluding the locknut and valve cap.
| Valve type | Valve length |
|---|---|
| Short | Below 50mm |
| Medium | 50 to 70mm |
| Long | Above 70mm |
FAQ
What Presta valve length should I use?
The ideal valve length is 15mm longer than the rim depth. This allows you to insert the pump inflator head to pump up the tires. That doesn’t mean the longer, the better. While it works, it’ll look ugly.
Can I use a Presta valve extender if my valve is too short?
Yes, valve extenders can be used to increase the length of your Presta valve, allowing it to fit deeper rims. Make sure to choose the correct size and type of extender for your valve.
How do I know if my bike has Presta valves?
Presta valves are thinner and have a locknut at the top that needs to be unscrewed before inflating. They are typically found on road and mountain bikes, while Schrader valves, which are thicker and resemble car tire valves, are more common on hybrid and city bikes.
Can I use a Presta valve extender if my valve is too short?
Yes, valve extenders can be used to increase the length of your Presta valve, allowing it to fit deeper rims. Make sure to choose the correct size and type of extender for your valve.
How do I know if my bike has Presta valves?
Presta valves are thinner and have a locknut at the top that needs to be unscrewed before inflating. They are typically found on road and mountain bikes, while Schrader valves, which are thicker and resemble car tire valves, are more common on hybrid and city bikes.
Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.
He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.