The Silca Ultimate Tubeless Valves feel very nicely made, and nothing more. There’s no bling factor from wild colours, and no novel technology to increase airflow. They are compatible with tyre inserts, however, which isn’t always a given.
This 70mm version (there’s a 50mm that’s £1 cheaper) is perfect for 60mm deep rims. It provides enough clearance for easy pump attachment without looking excessively long or untidy. The construction is top-tier, though if you were hoping for a pop of colour, you’ll have to look toward brands like Muc-Off or Peaty’s.
The 4mm hex socket inside the base lets you get a firm, perfectly airtight seal from the start. Air holes in the side in the stem (rather than just in the end) mean these work with tyre inserts, too.
The valve caps double as core removal tools. This is incredibly handy for roadside repairs or when you’re adding fresh sealant mid-season, and as they’re standard cores they’re easily replaced should they get completely gummed up.
I found they seated nicely in the rims, and my tyres pumped up easily on the first attempt.
Silca is very much a premium, engineering-led company (their tagline is ‘Precision Tools for Passionate Cyclists’), so it’s a bit of a shame these aren’t big-bore for improved airflow and easier bead seating. Then again those can be more expensive, such as with the Muc-Off Big Bore Lite Tubeless Valves at £40.
At £29 the Silca Ultimate Tubeless Valves are competing with the likes of Muc-Off’s Tubeless Valves V2 at £29 or the Peaty x Chris King Mk2s at £29.99. You can get decent valves (or even big bore ones) from less ‘fancy’ brands for considerably less, though.
Still, if you’re after regular valves that are very nicely made, perform exactly as they should, and at least have a couple of nice details (the integrated core tool, insert compatibility and secure fitting), these are an excellent choice.
Test Report
What does the manufacturer say about this product?:
Silca says, ‘Complete your tubeless setup with these high quality cnc’d aluminum valves.’
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of this product:
•Precision CNC-machined aluminum body
•4 mm hex interface for secure, tool-controlled installation
•Insert-compatible design with most tire inserts
•Perfect system match with SILCA Ultimate Tubeless Tape
• Threaded aluminum valve cap with core tool
• Low profile lock nut
• 50mm and 70mm length optimized for modern rims
How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested?:
It’s very close to similar valves from other big brands.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product?
No – I like a pop of colour
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Maybe
Use this box to explain your overall score
These are nicely made and work well, but some may find the conventional design and ordinary looks a little disappointing.
About the tester
Age: 25Height: cmWeight: 72kg
I usually ride: Storck AerfastMy best bike is:
I’ve been riding for: 10-20 yearsI ride: Every dayI would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: Road racing, Commuting, Touring, Club riding, Mountain bike XC, Mountain bike Enduro, Mountain bike downhill/freeride
