Why go tubeless?
- Reduced Puncture Risk: Tubeless setups drastically decrease the chances of getting a flat tire. Sealant inside the tire automatically plugs small punctures as they happen, keeping you rolling without even noticing.
- Lower Rolling Resistance: Without the friction between the tube and tire, you’ll experience less rolling resistance. This means a smoother and more efficient ride, especially on rough terrains.
- Improved Traction: Tubeless tires allow you to run lower tire pressures without the fear of pinch flats. Lower pressures increase the tire’s contact patch, providing better grip and control, particularly in challenging trail conditions.
- Weight Savings: Eliminating the tube reduces rotating mass, making your bike lighter. While the weight difference might seem minor, it can contribute to a more agile and responsive ride.
How to Convert to Tubeless:
Materials Needed:
- Tubeless-ready tires
- Tubeless rim tape
- Tubeless valves
- Tire sealant
- Tire levers
- High-pressure floor pump or tubeless inflator
- Step 1: Gather Your Materials Make sure you have all the necessary components mentioned above.
- Step 2: Remove the Existing Tires and Tubes Use tire levers to carefully take off your current tires and tubes.
- Step 3: Clean the Rims Wipe down the rims to ensure a clean surface for the tubeless tape to adhere to.
- Step 4: Apply Tubeless Rim Tape Carefully apply tubeless rim tape, ensuring full coverage over the spoke holes. Make sure it’s snug and free from bubbles or wrinkles.
- Step 5: Install Tubeless Valves Insert tubeless valves into the valve holes on your rims. Tighten the locknut securely.
- Step 6: Mount Tubeless-Ready Tires Mount the tubeless-ready tires onto the rims. This may require some effort, so be patient. Ensure the bead of the tire sits evenly on the rim.
- Step 7: Add Sealant Using a valve core remover, take out the valve core and add the recommended amount of sealant. Reinstall the valve core.
- Step 8: Inflate Using a high-pressure floor pump or tubeless inflator, inflate the tire. It might help to use a rapid burst of air to seat the tire onto the rim. You may hear a satisfying “pop” when it seals.
- Step 9: Check for Leaks Rotate and shake the wheel to distribute the sealant. Check for any leaks around the bead and valve. If there are small leaks, continue shaking and rotating until sealed.
- Step 10: Fine-Tune Pressure Adjust the tire pressure to your liking. Remember, one of the benefits of tubeless is the ability to run lower pressures for improved traction.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully converted your Patrol Mountain bike to tubeless. Now, enjoy the benefits of a smoother, puncture-resistant ride on the trails!
