Although the tubeless system represents a breakthrough for MTB wheels and applications in the tough and demanding terrain of mountain biking, for lighter road-gravel use, the benefits of the tubeless system are not always proportionately high compared to its drawbacks.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the advantages of using a tubeless system on road and gravel bikes. We will also provide practical recommendations for the proper refilling of the sealing fluid and maintenance of this system. In addition, we will highlight the potential disadvantages that may exist when using this solution.
The main advantages of the tubeless system
- Less risk of punctures
The Tubeless system reduces the risk of punctures because, simply put, there is no inner tube to be damaged by sharp objects or if the rim is punched. sealant sealant inside the tire plugs the resulting punctures as long as the tire is not cut - and no sealant can handle a large cut (but we will explain the alternatives later). - Riding at a lower pressure
The Tubeless system, by eliminating Tubes, allows you to ride at a lower pressure without the risk of Tubes being damaged by knockdown, which increases riding comfort. This is especially beneficial when riding on gravel roads and more difficult off-road sections. Reducing tire pressure also translates into increased grip and better control of the bike, which is crucial to the safety and efficiency of gravel bike riding.
Tubeless system needs to be constantly monitored to ensure effective operation
It is recommended to use about 50 ml of sealing fluid in a road tire and about 70-80 ml in a gravel tire. The amount of fluid should be adapted to the width of the tire. For road tires, it is not recommended to use less than 50 ml of fluid, because in a puncture situation, high pressure can cause partial loss of fluid before it is effectively distributed and seals the punctured tire.
It is recommended to regularly refill about 20 ml of sealant every 2-3 months, however, depending on the intensity of use and tire punctures, you may need to refill more often. sealant is easiest and fastest to refill by pouring it through the valve after unscrewing the valve end first.
Additional Tubeless Tips:
- Do not mix sealants from different brands. If changing brands, clean the tire.
- If you are unsure if there is enough sealant in the tire, a simple way to check is by removing the wheel and shaking it. Ideally, you should hear the sound of the sealant inside. If you don't hear it, you need to add sealant.
- Before adding new sealant after a long period of not using the bike, clean the tire and rim to remove old sealant and any dirt inside.
- If the bike will not be used during the off-season, it is recommended to remove the sealant to prevent it from drying out and losing its sealing properties. Alternatively, if the bike will not be used for a long time, spin the wheels every 1-2 weeks to keep the sealant distributed inside. Good quality sealant retains its properties if it does not dry out in the tire.
- Regularly check the condition of the valve. A poorly mounted valve can cause pressure loss. Additionally, the valve core often gets filled and clogged with the rest of sealant, making it hard to pump the tire. Therefore, clean it thoroughly or replace it.
- Be sure to check the maximum allowable pressure on the tire and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. The pressure in tubeless tires is lower than that used in tires with an inner tube, in order to increase driving comfort and reduce rolling resistance.
Disadvantages of the tubeless system
- Complexity of installation and removal
install tubeless tires can indeed be more complicated than installing traditional tires with tubes. It requires some skill and the use of specialized tools. A key component is often an air compressor, which is useful for quickly and evenly inflating a tubeless tire, allowing it to sit properly on the rim. - Higher costs
Tubeless tires tend to be more expensive than standard tubeless solutions. In addition, they require special sealing fluid, tapes and valves, which generates additional operating costs. - Regular maintenance
Checking the condition and replenishing the sealing fluid are key to the proper operation of the system. A certain amount of sealing fluid may leak out when a tire is punctured before it is effectively sealed. This process is natural and part of the operating mechanism of the tubeless system.
In addition, sealant may partially evaporate over time or lose its sealing properties, resulting in the need for regular replenishment. - Difficulties in maintaining pressure
The tubeless system can sometimes encounter difficulties in maintaining constant tire pressure. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly check the pressure and, if necessary, adjust it. It is optimal to check and possibly adjust pressure before each ride or at least once a week. Gradual loss of pressure is a natural process occurring in a tubeless system. - Complicated repairs on the road
In the situation of more serious damage to a tubeless tire, such as a cut that sealant can't handle, repairs on the road can be more difficult and time-consuming than with a traditional tire with an inner tube. To deal with such emergencies, it's a good idea to carry special repair kits designed for tubeless tires, such as Maxalami or Stan's Dart, among others. These kits allow you to quickly fill a tire slit. Of course, it is still possible to put regular Tubes on a tubeless tire, which will allow you to finish the ride. - "Off-season" period
When storing a bicycle with wheels equipped with a tubeless system for an extended period of time, for example, for several months, it is not recommended to leave the sealing fluid in the tires. Long periods of inactivity can lead to the fluid drying out, resulting in the formation of deposits and lumps inside the tire. These deposits can hinder the future use of the tire and affect its sealing properties. Therefore, before storing a bicycle for an extended period of time, it is recommended to remove the fluid from the tires, and before using the bicycle again, to thoroughly check the tires and pour in new sealing fluid.
Applications
The tubeless system offers several important advantages. Thanks to better puncture resistance and the ability to ride at lower pressures, gravel bike users can enjoy relatively high tire puncture resistance, greater riding comfort and better grip due to lower pressures.
For highway driving, the improvement in ride comfort may not be as noticeable due to the need for higher pressures. The main benefit is the added protection of the tire thanks to the sealing fluid, which quickly fills the resulting puncture, allowing you to continue driving. In contrast, with a puncture of a regular Tubes , it is necessary to stop and replace it manually.
However, keep in mind that this system requires regular maintenance, and can be more costly both in purchase and ongoing operation due to the need for special sealing fluid and other accessories. It is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages in the context of your own needs and riding preferences, so that you can make an informed choice between the tubeless system and traditional tubes.
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