How to Go Tubeless (And Stop Dealing With Flats)

If you’ve been riding long enough, you’ve probably dealt with the frustration of flats, whether it’s a thorn on a gravel road or a pinch flat on a rough descent. Going tubeless is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your bike, offering improved comfort, better traction, and significantly fewer punctures. While the setup can feel intimidating at first, the process is straightforward once you understand the steps.

Tubeless systems eliminate the inner tube and instead rely on a sealed tire and rim interface, along with liquid sealant inside the tire. This setup allows you to run lower tire pressures without risking pinch flats, improving grip and ride quality, especially on gravel, mixed terrain, and rough pavement.

Another major benefit is puncture resistance. Small holes caused by debris are often sealed instantly by the sealant, meaning you can keep riding without even stopping. For commuters and endurance riders alike, this can be a game changer.

Before starting, make sure you have the right components:

• Tubeless-ready rims
• Tubeless-compatible gravel, road, or mtb tires
• Tubeless rim tape
• Tubeless valves
• Sealant
• Floor pump or air compressor (a booster pump helps)

Trying to convert non-tubeless components can work in some cases, but it’s far less reliable and not recommended if you want a hassle-free experience.

1. Tape the Rim
Start by applying tubeless rim tape tightly and evenly across the rim bed. This creates an airtight seal and prevents air from escaping through spoke holes. Take your time here, this is the foundation of a successful setup.

2. Install the Valve
Insert the tubeless valve through the taped valve hole and secure it firmly. Make sure the rubber base sits snugly against the tape to avoid leaks.

3. Mount the Tire
Install one side of the tire bead onto the rim. Before seating the second bead, pour the recommended amount of sealant into the tire, usually 2 to 4 ounces depending on tire size. Then mount the second bead.

4. Inflate and Seat the Bead
Using a high volume pump or compressor, inflate the tire quickly to snap the beads into place. You’ll often hear a series of pops as the tire seats. Once seated, spin and shake the wheel to distribute sealant evenly.

5. Check for Leaks
Inspect the tire and valve for any air leaks. Small leaks typically seal themselves after a few minutes of riding or shaking. If necessary, add a bit more air and continue rotating the wheel.

One of the biggest advantages of tubeless is the ability to run lower pressures. Start slightly lower than your usual setup and experiment. Lower pressure improves comfort and traction, but too low can feel sluggish or cause burping, which is air loss at the bead.

Tubeless setups aren’t completely set and forget. Sealant dries out over time, so plan to refresh it every 2 to 3 months depending on climate. It’s also a good idea to carry a spare tube on rides, just in case of a larger cut that sealant can’t handle.