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[bullethead]

not the most exciting topic, but a but scary...

I have a Bullet 500cc classic, from 2000. Twice now I have had a rear tube value rip, providing a scary sudden bike wobble experience - luckily the rear wheel on both occasions. The manual recommends 19" tubes. I have seen some Michelen heavy duty 4mm thick tubes. Is this a good option, or are there any other suggestions to avoid this ever, ever happening again?

[Norm]

Pulling the valve indicates low tyre pressure not the fault of the tube and I won't suggest it is the power being applied causing the rim to slip

[Dennis C]

Assuming that you mean the valve is pulling out, then it is caused by tyre slip as Norm says, no matter how strong the tube is, if the tyre creeps then this will happen, ensure that you only use the correct lubricant to fit the tyre see the thread two pages or so down titled "Easy Tyre Removal Tip"

Also ensure you are running the tyre at the correct pressure.

[Paul M H]

As already stated by two previous posters this indicates low tyre pressure. I use 30 to 35 Psi Rear 25 to 30 Psi front in TT100 tyres never had a problem. What pressures are you running. You can get tyre anchors fitted but that involves drilling rim but are not normally needed on road bikes with such low power as a standard bullet.

[John M]

If you need to run low tyre pressures then rimlocks will solve the problem.

[zippy]

-This should not be happening! When the tube is fitted, what are you using for a lube? If you use talc on the tube and dilute soapy water with a 1/2" paintbrush to fit the tyre, all should be well. Another thing to do is inflate and deflate the tyre to get rid of any folds or creases.

[neddy]

Leave the valve locking nut loose next time you change the inner tube, check it every time you get on the bike for 90* to the rim, if 90* all good, if its moving off 90*, problem.

[Leon Novello]

The workshop manual says Front 32 PSI. Rear 36 PSI.

[simon]

32 Psi is a bit hard for the front I would have thought. I tend to run mine at 32 rear and 23 front. The heavy tubes are for scramblers and off road bikes and aren't recommended for road bikes . As already mentioned you shouldn't be getting tyre shift on a bullet the bhp doesn't warrant it.