Tubeless tires for bicycles

Tubeless tires have been commonplace for bicycle mechanics for several years now, but many cyclists still harbor mixed feelings. Not everyone understands the benefits of ditching the inner tube. Many people accuse these systems of high failure rates. My favorite quote on this topic is: "A tube is a tube after all." This quote comes from a certain (and, by the way, distinguished) coach. It's hard to argue with that. However, I'll try to present substantive pros and cons with a more concrete conclusion than "you have to think about it." I'll also discuss my service experiences and the wheels themselves designed for this solution. However, I can't resist a spoiler in the introduction. Tubeless tires on bikes are great!

Detailed information about valves - Bicycle valve - types and applications

How do tubeless tires work?

It's not a complicated technique. First, you need rims that can hold pressure and have the right profile. These are usually sealed with special tape, which is carefully applied instead of a traditional rim tape. There are also rims with a uniform surface (UST), which eliminate the need for tape. However, they are heavier, and due to their "combined" construction (you can't simply reposition the nipples from the top), their centering is more complicated. A valve is also useful, which is installed after applying the tape for maximum airtightness. Theoretically, only dedicated tubeless-ready tires can be sealed, but many people choose top-of-the-line models designed for inner tubes due to their lower weight. This can often be done, but there's a higher risk of punctures. A liquid sealant completes the package, sealing small production holes and acting as a lifesaver in the event of a flat. And that's it!

What does it give you?

Tubeless tires offer performance and comfort. Above all, they allow you to run lower pressures. This means better traction and more confident handling. In mountain biking, the minimum pressure limit for tube-type tires is two atmospheres, and even that's for very light riders. Below that, pinching the tube on bumps or roots is almost certain. Tubeless tires can easily go down to around 1.4 bar, and I know people who race in the mountains (with success) with less than one atmosphere. But even without such extreme values, the difference in ride quality is colossal. The tires seem to stick to the ground, and the ride comfort increases. Even cobblestones are no longer a threat. For road riding, this perfectly aligns with the trend towards wider tires, which don't need to be inflated to their limits. It's not just comfort – contrary to appearances, a tire with lower pressure provides lower rolling resistance because it doesn't bounce around and lose energy on minor bumps. On the road, the surface is rarely as perfect as on the track.

Tubeless bicycle tires mean failure-free operation

You can't puncture a tube. However, you can puncture the tire itself. Tubeless tires are typically filled with a liquid sealant. When a puncture occurs, the sealant, pushed out by air, seals the hole, and you can continue riding. Sometimes you don't even notice. Of course, this isn't foolproof—sometimes the sealant can't handle larger damage. In such cases, you can always... put a tube in the tire! That's why I recommend them for sports bikes, adventure bikes , and city bikes alike. An additional advantage is their lower weight. Contrary to popular belief, the tube contributes quite a bit to the rotating mass, and in the case of 29-inch wheels, this weight is definitely noticeable. Even considering the slightly heavier weight of tubeless tires and sealant, you'll be significantly ahead.

Photo credit: Ryan Boren

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Tubeless tires on a bike also have disadvantages

It's primarily price. Both tubeless-compatible tires and wheels are significantly more expensive than models without this feature. Add to that valves, sealant, and sealant. The latter should be topped up regularly (at least every six months). For many amateurs, this is simply a triumph of style over substance, although it must be admitted that all these components are getting cheaper. The second issue is installation. Tubeless tires require a "shot" of pressure to click into place and seal. This requires either a compressor or a special pump with a pressure accumulator. Furthermore, many models aren't always willing to do this – a fluid that increases slippage between the tire and rim is useful. Add sealant to the mix, and you have a significant potential for mess. For this reason, most users rely on service centers – it's a dependency on the basics and additional costs. Tubeless isn't the right solution if your bike is used sporadically and is mainly a showroom decoration. The sealant will collect at the bottom of the tires and dry out, no longer fulfilling its function.

Are tubeless wheels for a bicycle a good idea?

Phenomenal! Provided you ride a lot and can afford the extra expense. The difference in handling (especially off-road), comfort, and reliability are worth the price. In my opinion, tubeless tires are one of the biggest revolutions in cycling , comparable to 29er wheels, drivetrains without a front derailleur, or the popularization of carbon fiber. They're practically standard for sporting use due to their usefulness, but many amateurs are still afraid of them. And yet, they're perfect for gravel riding! I'll be using them on my fixed gear this season! However, I think the increasingly lower prices will encourage more cyclists to ditch the tubes. It's a worthwhile advancement. Main photo: Glory Cycles

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