XLC Boxed Tube, 700 x 20 - 25C (27 x 1), PRESTA (48mm) Review

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(More customer reviews)These tubes are the smooth unthreaded, Presta valves without the valve lock nut. I wasn't certain when I ordered them, but for $ 2.79 each thought it was worth giving them a shot. The tubes aren't self-sealing or thorn resistant, but again, those extra features are available in pricier tubes. The OEM Innova's the XLC's replaced were threaded and my original quest & intent was to get threaded tubes to replace threaded tubes. That was the only moment of any perception of disappointment. I proceeded to install them and now realize these are much better in that the unthreaded valve stems don't wear out the Presta valve rubber gasket seal of your hand pump sooner. Reading on-line I had read forum discussions & feedback that there is a possibility that the unthreaded don't lock onto the air pump as well, but as previously stated, that threading comes with a wear and tear penalty on your air pump. I had no problems locking onto the XLC smooth unthreaded Presta valve and inflating the tubes to 100+ psi, they hold air and if you can get past not having a threaded valve with a lock nut, these are excellent value tubes.
My OEM Innova tubes had 4 defective bumps in the front tire tube, I haven't checked the rear, maybe I pay a price for being lazy that way. Anyway, one of those defects developed a hole and thus the flat. The XLC tubes were non-deformed rubber all the way around. All tubes inflate with a bulge here and there and that's to be expected with these as well.
As for Niagara Cycle Works as a vendor, they priced for value, the XLC product performs as new, and my test ride(s) around the neighborhood, I encountered no issues. Customer service was excellent, prompt shipping, Amazon provided tracking number for USPS.
Good reading on threaded vs unthreaded:
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Individually boxed, inner packs of 10, cases of 50. LL designates tubes w/ new Low Lead content valve, complying w/ 2009 CPSIA standards for tubes 24" and smaller.

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