How do you setup tubless tires, and why would you want to? Read below for some quick info, and some learnings I’ve had from actually doing it. Most importantly, watch the video from Park Tool at the bottom, which shows the whole process from start to finish.
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Table of contents
Open Table of contents
Why tubeless
There are some common advantages often spoken of when it comes to tubeless vs tubes.
- Less weight, since you are removing an entire inner tube and replacing it with a small amount of liquid
- Puncture protection, as one of the main benefits is that small holes literally seal themselves within seconds
- More of a connected feel with the ground, with the air pressure directly hitting the tires, as opposed to hitting the tubes first, which then hit the tires secondarily
Basic tools and materials
- Presta valve stem with removable core
- Tubeless rim tape
- Sealant
- Sealant injector syringe
- Tire levers
What I learned
The main thing I learned, is that if you take your time, it’s really not that hard to do. While intimidating at first, you can definitely do this. I also wish I had watched the video below, since I made the exact mistake they mention, about thinking my tubeless ready rims were pre-taped. What I actually saw was the protective rim strip, which I believe is for preventing the backend of spokes from piercing the tube. Funny story, I actually ran tubeless with that strip in both tires for like two years, thinking that the sealant leaking out near the spokes was normal. I just kept adding sealant until it all gummed up. Not recommended.
As for the benefits, I think the first two points for sure make a difference. They are lighter and you definitely can just keep riding in many situations where you’d normally get a flat. For some people, knowing they have flat protection changes how they ride due to the fact they run really low tire pressure on purpose, allowing much more grip and compliance while not worrying about flats from rocks or compressing the tire so much that it causes a ‘snake bite’ where the rim itself cuts into it. As for the point about feeling connected with the ground, I think that is really subjective, or perhaps for an elite level that definitely doesn’t apply to me. I haven’t honestly done the same trail with and without tubes on the same exact bike, but riding tubeless to me doesn’t feel like some unknown feeling on a bike that has never existed before. It just feels good, it’s not some magic that will make you faster or better.
Lastly, some people may feel stressed about the maintenance. When to refill, what if it dries out, do I need to clean the inside of the tire, etc. If you are out to have fun and not chasing a race podium, just don’t stress it too much. Each brand is different and they recommend to refill every few months. What happens if you don’t? Well, in my experience, you just lose the flat protection, and it otherwise works as normal. I am honestly riding on tires which I haven’t changed the sealant on in over 12 months. I’m lazy, and riding local trails, so I can just walk home if I need to. If I’m going to venture far away, I’d refill quickly with the injector method, which I find easiest. I never take off the tire and clean it, I just wait till it’s worn out and replace it. Don’t over think it.