Everyone is going tubeless now, but not without some frustration.

Believe it or not, some people trust in a system called ghetto-tubeless. This is where you split an innertube down the outside centre and flap it over the rim sidewalls. Then the tyre is mounted and sealant installed. This often works when tyre pressures are high, but often fails because the tyre doesn’t seat into the rim sidewall properly, causing the tyre to “burp” and lose pressure, often coming away from the rim completely, causing immediate and complete loss of tyre pressure.

Here are my 3 top tips to make sure you get the most out of running your wheels tubeless.

1. Use rims and tyres which are designed for tubeless.

   Look for markings like LUST, UST, TLR, TL or TCS on the tyres. Used together, tubeless tyres and rims have an airtight seal at the tyre bead and the tyre effectively locks into place, preventing sudden or gradual air loss. In this fashion, the tyres can be used at fairly low pressures, increasing comfort and traction.
   Rims designed for tubeless usually have an internal cross-section like this:

   

   Tubeless vs. non-tubeless designs

2. Use good quality sealant (like Batseal or Stan’s)

   Make sure you monitor sealant levels in your tyres at least monthly. Sealant escapes when sealing punctures ad there is some loss in hot conditions. If your rim tape isn’t perfect, some sealant will seep through into the rim or past the valve. If you don’t have enough sealant, your punctures won’t seal.
   

3. Carry, and know how to use, tyre plugs to repair punctures that the sealant can’t.

   
   Here’s a quick video on how these work.
   [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkoFPVKOW6U]

You spend too much time and money on your bike and riding to struggle with your tyres. If you do it right, you’ll have very little hassle and get the most out of your tubeless system.

I can help to get your bike tubeless ready, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.