PTN - Pepi's Tire Noodle
What is it and why is it worth it?
You may have seen a similar product before, but only Pepi's is unique. It is manufactured by hand in Italy, weighs 50 grams or 300% less than other brands, and most importantly, the entire top of the XC World Cup rides Pepi's, whose manufacturer has a patent on its innovative idea
Pepis Tire Noodle is the only right solution for those who want to avoid defects, protect wheel rims from punctures, and support the tubeless system. PTN (short for Pepi's Tire Noodle) are specially constructed foam inserts that, when inserted, sit between the tire and the rim.
HOW DOES PEPI'S TIRE NOODLE WORK?
The action of the PTN insole can be compared to an air cushion to minimize injury. In this case, the cushion is not air, but made of specially designed foam. The purpose of the insert is to minimize the possibility of rim damage. During dynamic driving, rims are often subjected to serious bumps, after which so-called dents or cracks may remain. Many of you have found this out when, for example, during a fast descent down a mountain path, you encountered a rock or root too large for the Wheel to slide over freely. This kind of rim damage is not only undesirable for the sake of aesthetics alone, but also because of the reduced performance of a dented rim. The problems that a dented rim can bring, for example, are difficulties with tire sealing. Depending on the force of the impact, PTN cushions it and reduces or completely eliminates the possibility of a dented rim. But that's not all
Probably many of you will reach for this product to effectively protect your rims from unexpected failures, and that's not all of the benefits and features of Pepi's Tire Noodle! "Hose" placed on the rim ensures that you can ride at a lower pressure without fear for the condition of the rim. Lower tire pressure provides less rolling resistance and allows for a more comfortable ride and better bike handling. In addition, PTN inserts are a great booster for a tubeless system and can be a guaranteed safe way to finish a race or train in case of a crash!
Do you know the worst-case scenario of defections during an MTB marathon? If you don't already, it happens to everyone at some point. Imagine. A badly cut tire, sealant sealing that can't handle such a big cut. It's a long way to the finish line, and it can take a really long time to get back on foot. Horror, right? Admittedly, PTN will not magically seal this cut, but it will allow you to calmly finish the ride in the saddle saving you hours of walking.
This is now the most interesting.
The increasing difficulty of the routes on which World Cup editions are being held requires riders to use very low pressure. Top riders from around the world use Pepis Tire Noodle to protect their rims and to get better riding dynamics and maximum grip. If you're not yet convinced by PTN, let a bike from an MTB legend and current XC World Champion convince you.
Some sources say that it has a PTN system only in the rear wheel, others that the whole set. Probably the choice is related to the route of the race and the fact that during XC competitions it is possible to replace Wheels in the technical box in case of a defect.
INSTALLATION MANUAL
I WANT TO USE PTN
First.
Pepi's Tire Noodle is used with a tubeless system. Pour sealant sealant inside the tire. We recommend Stan's NoTubes, the idea is to make sealant as thick as possible so that it can work more effectively in the tire with Pepi's liner. A dedicated sealant by Maxalami has also been created for use only with Pepi.
When a tire is punctured by, for example, a spike, sealant along with escaping air instantly enters the hole and seals it. If you don't know how exactly the tubeless system works, read more in our guide entitled "Tubeless system - everything you should know".
Tubeless system | Advantages and Guide - link to article
Once you have everything prepared, the installation of the PTN proceeds in the same way as for the installation of the tubeless system. To begin with, you need to tape the rim with sealing tape and install the valve. There are two dedicated valves in the PTN "hose" kit. After installing the valve, pull the tire to the rim and then put Pepi's insert on the rim. The included instructions describe the correct installation of the insert. Once the PTN is seated on the rim, perform the rest of the steps in the same way as for sealing Wheels , i.e. pour sealant into the tire, put the tire on the other side of the rim and inflate.
Pepis Tire Noodle offers two types of inserts - the RaceLine and RokkLine versions. The former is intended mainly for racing use, due to its light weight. RokkLine is a thicker, more durable and also heavier version. The foam fills the entire center of the insole, unlike the lighter RaceLine version.
"Hoses" PTN are available in several variants, which you have to choose based on Wheels size and tire width. When you buy Pepi's Tire Noodle kit, you get two inserts for a set of wheels, two valves and instructions.
We are very pleased to announce that Lemonbike.eu has become the Polish distributor of Pepi's Tire Noodle brand
All mountain bikers are encouraged to use the facilities provided by PTN. This is undoubtedly a great advantage over rivals, as well as a guarantee of tubeless riding and protection of equipment when the greatest stresses arise. In addition, we invite you to the World Cup routes to see what the best riders have in their wheels.