What Triathletes Need to Know
The fall and winter months can be a great time to make some upgrades to your bike, and switching to tubeless tires could be the upgrade you’re seeking to gain an advantage. Tubeless tires offer several benefits, including improved rolling resistance, reduced risk of flats, and the ability to run lower tire pressures for better traction.
Here’s what you need to know to make the transition smoothly.
1. Tubeless-Ready Wheels
First, ensure that your wheels are compatible with tubeless tires. Most modern wheelsets are tubeless-ready, but it’s important to verify this with the manufacturer or check for a tubeless-ready label. If your wheels aren’t compatible, you may need to invest in a new set designed specifically for tubeless use.
2. Tubeless Rim Tape
Tubeless rim tape is designed to create an airtight seal between the tire and rim, while regular rim tape protects the inner tube from spoke holes. This tape is made specifically for tubeless systems, and is applied to the rim bed to cover gaps and spoke holes. The tape should be 2–5 mm wider than the rim’s internal width. Check your wheel manufacturer to see what rim tape and size is recommended for your wheel set.
3. Tubeless Tires
Not all tires are created equal. Tubeless tires are designed with a tighter bead that locks into the rim, creating an airtight seal without the need for an inner tube. When choosing tires, consider your typical riding conditions. Look for tires that balance low rolling resistance with puncture protection. Often your wheel set will have recommended tires along with the widths they recommend. I have been using the Continental Grand Prix 5000s.
4. Tubeless Sealant
One of the biggest advantages of tubeless tires is the ability to self-seal small punctures. This is thanks to the liquid sealant that you pour into the tire during installation. The sealant coats the inside of the tire, and if you encounter a puncture, it quickly fills and seals the hole. Be sure to choose a high-quality sealant and keep in mind that it needs to be replenished every few months as it can dry out over time. I have been using Orange Seal Endurance Formula Sealant but there are many options.
5. Tubeless Valves
Tubeless valves are different from standard Presta or Schrader valves as they are designed to create an airtight seal in the rim. These valves are essential for maintaining the tubeless setup. When installing, ensure that the valve is properly seated and tightened to prevent air leaks. To refill sealant, you’ll need to remove the valve core. I recommend a tool like Stan’s valve core remover tool for this.
6. Tire Installation Tools
Switching to tubeless tires can be a bit more challenging than using standard clinchers, so having the right tools is crucial. An air compressor or a small portable air compressor can be invaluable for seating the tire beads properly, but if you don’t have one (I don’t yet), you can use CO2 cartridges to inflate the tire quickly and get it seated. Just be sure to deflate the air after getting it seated and pump up the tire again with your bike pump since the tire will lose air quickly with the CO2. A good floor pump with a high-pressure capacity is also a must, especially for inflating the tire to the correct pressure once the bead is seated.
7. Proper Tire Pressure
One of the benefits of tubeless tires is the ability to run lower pressures without the risk of pinch flats. I’ve been riding tubeless for 2 years and have only gotten one flat that sealed quickly on a ride but not before my tire lost a good bit of air, but I still made it through the rest of my ride with no problem riding at very low pressure. However, finding the optimal tire pressure is a balance between comfort, traction, and rolling resistance. Start with the recommended pressure range for your tire and experiment to find what works best for your weight, riding style, and road conditions.
8. Regular Maintenance
While tubeless setups are generally low-maintenance, they aren’t completely hands-off. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inspect the tire for any signs of wear or punctures. Periodically refresh the sealant to ensure it remains effective. If you’re still using the same tires after a year of riding, it’s a good idea to completely wash the sealant out and replace it.
9. Flats that don’t seal?
Yes, you may get a big enough puncture that your sealant is unable to seal. When this happens you have a few different options. You can try sealing the puncture with “bacon strips” or rope plugs before reinflating your tire with a CO2 or bike pump. You can also seal the puncture using a gel wrapper or dollar bill. And you can also put a tube in your tubeless tire.
Final Thoughts
Making the switch to tubeless tires can provide you with a smoother ride, fewer flats, and potentially faster times. With the right equipment and a little bit of practice, the transition to tubeless is straightforward and well worth the effort. Happy riding!
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