The performance of carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers is limited by the intertube characteristics. Here we report a direct method of curing to improve mechanical properties of poly(amic acid)-infiltrated fibers. After curing at 190 degrees C for 60 min the fibers composed of double- and triple-walled CNTs, their strength is stably improved by 30.3%, from 1.58 to 2.06 GPa. The enhancement arises from the increase in shear stress between tube surfaces, by measuring the static frictional force of CNT fibers. Due to the existence of CNTs, the imidization temperature of polyimide drops greatly from 218 to 157 degrees C. (C) 2010 American Institute of Physics. [doi:10.1063/1.3511451]