700c 23-26 Tubes on 28's
 

I recently picked up a set of Forte GT2 Kevlar tires (28's). One review mentioned they fit very snug, but this set is ridiculous. After destroying to tire levers and pitching 3 tubes (Fort 28-32 puncture resistant) I am almost giving up.

Would it be possible to use 23-26 tubes instead of the 28-32?

Any other tips on how to install these tires?

Get some talc (talcum powder) and put a little in a bag. With the caps on the stems put the tires in the bag with the talc and shake the bag. Pull the tubes out and mount the tires on the wheels. Put a little (very little) air in the tubes after you have put them in the 1/2 mounted tires. The rubber will not be "sticky" and the tubes will tend to get out of the way when you are mounting the tire on the rim. You probably will stop pinching the tubes. Try mounting the tires without the tools using your thumbs and the heel of your hand. If you need the tools then you can spot the white tube and avoid getting the tool caught. Talc also lets the tube move freely in the tire when you pump it up and you will avoid the cockeyed stem. Good luck.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by timthorn (Post 6764328)

Would it be possible to use 23-26 tubes instead of the 28-32?

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Yes, you can use the smaller tubes instead. May not make installation of the tight a55 tires any easier but you may not ruin the tubes. AND, buy some levers with steel shanks...not full plastic. Lastly, grunt and curse as much as possible.

Thanks for the talc idea, love how simple solutions escape the mind. I will definitely try it tonight.

Thanks for confirming the usage of smaller tubes. Grunting and cursing is cost effective.