Pedaling without worries: it seems like every cyclist's forbidden dream. Yet, sometimes dreams come true. Supreme Dutch, a company from the Netherlands, has presented a technology that could put an end to one of the worst nightmares of those who travel on two wheels: punctures. Their recyclable tires, completely devoid of air, are structured in expanded thermoplastic material capable of absorbing shocks and maintaining their original shape for thousands of kilometers. Up to 20.000, to be exact. An eternity in the world of Cycling, where changing an inner tube is a ritual as common as it is annoying. The promise is not only to eliminate punctures, but to offer an environmentally sustainable alternative to the disposable that characterizes the current tire market.
A solution for professionals and fleets
Supreme Dutch didn’t just create a solid tire: they developed a model based on an expanded thermoplastic structure that absorbs shocks and prevents deformations. The goal? To eliminate punctures forever, reduce maintenance to almost zero and guarantee a record duration. And one year after development, production begins. An irresistible proposition for companies that manage bike sharing, for riders who deliver to homes and for administrations that maintain fleets of bicycles. But there is one obstacle: Installation requires specialized tools, making these recyclable tires less accessible to individual cyclists. Forget about replacing your tube in your home garage; you’ll need to go to a shop with the proper equipment.
Yes, but is the pedaling comfort up to par?
An indestructible tire is of little use if it turns every bike ride into a physiotherapy session for the spine. Supreme Dutch ensures riding sensations identical to those offered by a traditional tyre inflated to 3,5 bar. An ambitious challenge, considering that solid tires have historically been criticized for their excessive rigidity, which transmits every little imperfection of the asphalt directly to the cyclist's back. The Dutch company claims, however, that their product is able to effectively absorb road bumps and guarantees excellent grip, thanks to the outer rubber layer that can be chosen from various renowned brands such as Schwalbe, Shelf o Vittoria.
Recyclable tires, the environmental impact
In addition to their robustness, Supreme Dutch’s recyclable tires are also committed to environmental sustainability. Made from recyclable materials, they promise to reduce waste by limiting the need for frequent replacements. A significant advantage for cities that invest in sustainable mobility and seek to contain waste production. However, one question remains: at the end of their life cycle, can these tires be easily recycled or reused? And above all, will their production (and therefore replacement) costs really be advantageous in the long term?
For now, the brand is focused on the professional market, but there is hope that this technology could one day be available for our daily bicycles. The question arises: would you be willing to abandon traditional tires for an indestructible model, even if it means relying on a professional for installation?
The answer probably depends on how many times you’ve found yourself walking in the rain with your bike in hand and a flat tire.
