So it’s been 10 months since I stumbled across this thread, and it’s time for a little update.
I finally ordered a two 2 metre lengths of 40mm backer rod from Dortech just before Christmas. It took a couple of months to arrive, but to be fair to Dortech they were really nice to deal with, so I would still use them again.
The rod was to go into a new rear tyre for my 25mm internal DT Swiss rims. It took me until April to finally decide on my tyre, which turned out to be an Onza Ibex 2.4, in the rather soft 45a compound. After a little measuring, and trimming to leave space around the valve, I zip-tied it in a loop and proceeded to fit the tyre and rod. I was very confident that everything had gone swimmingly, the Ibex mounted the rims magnificently. The insert didn’t seem to cause any particular problems, so I happily put sealant in and inflated the tyre. Then I put the wheel back on the bike, looked at the tread pattern… Tyre on the wrong bloody way around! What a numpty. Happily tyre removal and replacement went well, so all was good.
Three months later and thanks to the misguided purchase of a tyre that was way too soft for the range of riding that it was to be used for, and I’ve just bought the 55a version of the Ibex (it’s a bloody good tyre). The old tyre had a couple of small items embedded in it, and it was reflected in a couple of areas on the insert, but other than those, the insert was in pretty good nick, and still felt pretty firm. It’s been used on my daily commute with pressure around 35-40psi, with no noticeable effect. It’s been used as low as 23psi for more challenging rides around Wharncliffe Woods. I tend to ride at around 25psi there now, that seems to suit my clumsy style.
I honestly feel it’s been beneficial for the more technical rides. It feels like there’s a bit more support at the slightly lower pressures I run. For the few quid I spent on it, I think it’s great.
