The tubeless tire is a major innovation in the world of cycling. Designed to improve performance and ride comfort, this type of tire eliminates the need for a traditional inner tube. Instead, the tire forms a hermetic seal directly with the rim, making the configuration more resistant to punctures and offering other notable advantages.
One of the main advantages of tubeless tires is their resistance to pinch punctures, a common problem with traditional inner tubes. What's more, in the event of a puncture, the sealing fluid present in the tubeless tire can automatically seal small leaks, allowing you to continue riding without any significant interruption.
Another major advantage of tubeless tires is the ability to run at lower pressures without the risk of tube pinching. This translates into better traction and control, especially on uneven terrain, and a more comfortable ride thanks to better absorption of shocks and road vibrations.
However, switching to tubeless tires may require specific or tubeless-compatible rims, as well as a more complex initial installation. The installation process involves applying sealing tape to the rim, installing the tire, then adding sealing fluid before inflating the tire to create a hermetic seal. Although this installation can be carried out by an experienced cyclist, many choose to entrust it to a professional.
Tubeless tires also offer better performance in terms of rolling resistance. Without the internal friction of an inner tube, they can roll more freely, which can contribute to a slight improvement in speed and fuel efficiency.
In terms of maintenance, tubeless tires require periodic replacement of the sealing fluid to maintain their ability to self-heal small punctures. They may also require a little extra attention to ensure they remain well sealed and inflated to the right pressure.