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. The sealing fluid inside the tire plugs the resulting punctures, as long as the tire is not cut - and no fluid can handle a large cut (but we will explain the alternatives later). - Riding at a lower pressure
The tubeless system, thanks to the elimination of the inner tube, allows you to ride at a lower pressure without the risk of damaging the inner tube by knocking it out, 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 sealing fluid every 2-3 months, however, depending on the intensity of use and tire punctures, you may need to refill more often. The easiest and fastest way to refill the fluid is to pour it through the valve after first unscrewing the valve end.
Additional recommendations about using tubeless
- It is not recommended to mix fluids from different manufacturers. If you change the brand of fluid, clean the tire thoroughly.
- If you're not sure if there's enough sealing fluid in the tire, a simple way to find out is to pull the wheel off the bike and shake it vigorously. Ideally, you should hear the characteristic sound of sloshing fluid inside the tire. If you don't hear this sound, it's a sign that the tire's fluid should be topped up.
- Before topping up the fluid after a long period of not using the bike, it is important to thoroughly clean the tire and rim. The purpose of this process is to remove any residual old sealing fluid and any debris.
- If the bicycle will not be used in the post-season, it is recommended to remove the sealing fluid from the tires to avoid drying out the fluid and losing its sealing properties. Alternatively, if the bicycle is not used for a long time, the wheels can be turned every 1-2 weeks so that the fluid remains evenly distributed inside. Good-quality fluid will retain its properties after extended periods of non-use, as long as it has not dried out in the tire.
- Regularly check the condition of the valve and its tightness. An improperly installed valve can lead to loss of pressure. In addition, the valve cartridge often becomes clogged with residual sealing fluid, making it much more difficult to pump the wheel, so it's a good idea to clean it thoroughly every few months or replace it with a new one.
- 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 mounting and dismounting
Mounting tubeless tires can actually 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, tape 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 effective sealing occurs. This process is natural and part of the operating mechanism of the tubeless system.
In addition, the fluid 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, if necessary, adjust the 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 a more serious damage to a tubeless tire, such as a cut that the sealing fluid cannot 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 a regular tube in 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 due to the sealing fluid, which quickly fills the resulting puncture, allowing you to continue driving. In contrast, with a puncture in an ordinary inner tube, 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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