I would like to use latex tubes in the tires on my road bike. Perhaps they're all thea same, but I'm currently using Vittoria. I was warned and experience has shown that they're more fragile than their butyl counterpart. Consequently, I have gotten more than my fair share of flats. The curious thing is that a majority of the flats occur when I'm not even riding the bike. I have yet to experience a flat that was caused by a puncture! I've seen a few pinch flats as well as flats resulting from a mysterious tear or puncture. I know it's not uncommon for something to puncture the tube without remaining in the tread, but I'm not seeing any evidence that has occurred. More often than not, the tube experiences a sudden decompression while the bike is sitting idly in my apartment. On more than one occasion this has occurred shortly after I have topped off the tire in preparation for the next day's ride. I've heard a number of theories. The latest came from my mechanic who suggested that the frequent refilling required by latex tubes is creating micro-tears in the tube. Additionally, the chuck on my pump is secured to the valve stem by friction. Compared to pumps that use a locking lever to secure the Chuck to the valve, removing my chuck requires significantly more force. According to the mechanic, that stress might be creating micro-tears; which eventually rupture.

Another bike shop employee suggests it might be the rim tape I'm using. As opposed to cloth, my rim strip is "plastic." When installed, the rim tape terminates within two or three millimeters of the valve hole. Coincidently, that's where many of the mysterious "punctures" are occurring. I'm just wondering whether it's possible that the edge of the tape is cutting the tube.

I'm having to replace a latex tube about every other week! If that is typical for latex tubes, then it might not be worth it. However, I have my doubts. The purpose of this thread is not to debate the pros and cons of latex versus butyl. I've already decided that I prefer latex. However, the high maintenance costs in time and money might not be worth whatever benefit I think I'm getting. Is my desire to use latex tubes a lost cause?