Rubatex Information

Care And Handling

1. Tending to your tube is all about the air: how to get it, keep it, use it and lose it. With most one- or two-rider tubes, a 12-volt pump can do the bulk of the inflating. Bigger tubes like Big Moble call for high-volume inflators.

2. An underinflated tube will plow through the water damaging seams, tow points and the air bladder. Use a hand pump to top off the air until the wrinkles smooth out. The tube should be firm and not give.

3. Between rides, set the tube in a cool shady spot. There the air will cool and contract slightly, preventing damage. In the sun air can expand, possibly damaging the tube.

4. To protect seams and stitching, carry the tube.

5. When the fun is done, use the pump's reverse function that removes air more quickly and completely.

6. Stretch the tube out to dry, flipping it over when necessary to make sure all the mildew-producing moisture evaporates.

7. Roll the tube up rather than folding it, and stash it in climate controlled area in rodent-proof containers. (Leroy said squirrels stowed nuts in one left out.)