Vittoria, after having presented the Cross Country version (you can read the test here), came with a product that many were waiting for, namely the renewed version of the "old" Air-Liner, produced by Alessandro Bonarotti and then integrated into Vittoria.
This new Air-Liner was conceived and designed entirely in Vittoria with new and innovative features. The first feature that catches the eye is the less invasive nature of the system: now the new Air-Liner Protect is very flattened (T-shaped structure) to favor working the rubber more and coming into action only in the final part.
Why this difference compared to the Light version which maintains a less flat structure?
Because in DH and Enduro you use sturdy tires, perhaps with a DH carcass, which are able to maintain good support in the first part of the tire sinking (the same cannot be said in Cross Country). Having, in the Gravity field, an additional support inside that blocks the work of the tire risks not giving the right feedback, an aspect that has often been pointed out by professional athletes, who wanted a product that gave "sincere" feedback but that protected the rim in the event of violent impacts.
And, unlike its predecessor, the Air-Liner Protect is now available in 29″ and 27,5″, eliminating the need for tedious cutting and zip-tie closures.
AIR-LINER PROTECT: TWO VERSIONS
2 versions available: Downhill and Enduro. The shape is the same but the density of the structure changes, still remaining among the lightest in the category. The Air-Liner Protect Enduro version incorporates a lighter density foam. This ensures optimal shock absorption and improved handling. On the other hand, the Air-Liner Protect version Downhill boasts higher density foam, meticulously designed to withstand major impacts. The Air-Liner Protect insert Downhill it also proves to be very advantageous for e-bikes.
Air-Liner Protect is available in 2 sizes for enduro (27,5″ and 29″) and 2 sizes for downhill (27,5″ and 29″). All versions are compatible only with tubeless configurations and only with multi-way tubeless valves: a valve is included in the package.
AIR-LINER PROTECT ENDURO VS DOWNHILL
Same dimensions but different densities which lead to different characteristics. The Air-Liner is recommended for sections from 2.4″ to 2.6″ and rims with a 25-35mm channel. If the measurements differ slightly, it can still be assembled but it may take more effort to assemble.
| Air-Liner model | ENDURO | DOWNHILL |
| Foam density | Bassa | High |
| Return | Veloce | Slow |
| Compression | Bassa | High |
| High speed compression | Bassa | High |
| Shot put | 125-135 gr | 175-185 gr |
VITTORIA AIR-LINER PROTECT SPECIFICATIONS
| Model | Format | Rubber | Shot put | Price |
| Air-Liner Protect Enduro | 27.5 " | 2.4”–2.6” | 125 gr. | 59.95 € |
| 29 " | 2.4 –2.6” | 135 gr. | ||
| Air-Liner Protect Downhill | 27.5 " | 2.4”–2.6” | 175 gr. | |
| 29 " | 2.4”–2.6” | 185 gr. |
ADVANTAGES AIR-LINER PROTECT
Additionally, Air-Liner Protect strengthens the tire's lateral stability and bead retention, ensuring tires stay securely in place, even in the most broken-down sections. And let's not forget: Air-Liner Protect does not affect rolling resistance, except for approximately 120/180g more in weight.
COMPARATIVE AIR-LINRE DH / EN / LIGHT
Below we can see the comparative tests between the various Air-Liner models, including the old version. Note: 1000N of force is approximately equivalent to 100kg. As we can see, the old Air-Liner was much more protective than these versions, but even too much according to the Vittoria technicians. It is certainly second to none for rim protection but this then affects the driving feedback, creating a muffling effect that makes the tire work poorly. The old Air-Liner, used on the rear in DH/Enduro use, is however still a valid solution.
You can see how the Light, Enduro and Downhill are very similar to each other: only in the final part are there increases in value. Example: in the DH version there is an increase of approximately 1000N compared to the EN (Enduro) version. It means that, to get to the hoop, you need 100kg more strength. This is a graph referring to pure strength, remember that between the Air-Liner Protect DH and Enduro models there are also differences in the response of the material (we explained this previously).
VIDEO AIR-LINER PROTECT
VICTORY RANGE
Now the Vittoria range, as regards inserts, is complete and covers all disciplines. More info to the official website.
HOW IS THE VITTORIA AIR-LINER PROTECT GOING?
READ OUR TEST HERE!
