Why Run Tubeless? Part 2

Why Run Tubeless? Part 2

  For the best choice on a UST or Tubeless set up, make sure you will be using proper UST (Universal System for Tubeless) or tubeless equipment.  There are many companies out now offering UST systems and coming up with there versions or names for UST such as TLR, TNT, Tubeless Ready, Tubeless Light, No Tubes, 2bliss, TCS to name a few.  What does all this mean?  Best I can sum it up is:

• Tube type - designed for use with a tube
• Tubeless ready - UST bead but designed for use with sealant
• UST - UST bead and an airtight casing that does not require sealant to hold air

UST compatible systems should allow you to install the tires by hand and inflate with a standard floor pump. The tires will have an extra layer of rubber inside the carcass to seal against leaks. They do not have to be used with a liquid sealant. Of course this all matters if you’re using a UST rim or not. Not all tires, and not all rims, will hold in place when inflated without a tube.

Do I use a sealant with my UST tire and UST rim? As tire pressure is such a big personal preference so is the sealant on full UST wheel sets. A full UST system can hold air with out sealant but will leave you with a flat on the trail and force you to throw in a tube to make it back home. Sealant is definitely recommended in all tubeless or tubeless ready set ups for added seating/leaking protection, thorn and puncture resistance, burping, and just plain confidence. Mavic’s UST rims are a very popular choice for tubeless setups as they teamed up with Hutchinson to create UST standards.  Easton, DT Swiss, SunRingle, Shimano, and Stan’s are all some more brands that offer UST or Tubeless ready versions that also work great.

Tires tires tires…. There are so many options to choose from with so many tire versions. I can read for hours and hours on all the different setups of different tires with different rims with this sealant and what works and does not work. I can’t tell you the perfect set up or wheel and tire match as every individual will install their rim tape or strip or sealant and valve their own way.  Just stay with the basics; almost any tubeless ready or UST tire will mount to a UST rim. Some will require sealant and some will not. Most tubeless ready tires will mount to a tubeless ready rim or a regular tubular rim that has been converted correctly as a tubeless rim. This setup will require sealant but have heard of stories not needing sealant when using certain UST tires on a Tubeless ready or converted tubeless rim. (Not Recommended) Just be careful and do your research.  I have heard of a leading brand tire not being a good choice for a tubeless converted rim because the bead is too tight and makes it a pain to seat correctly and unserviceable out on the trails. Others like that fact that it has a tight bead and is harder to get the tire on and off.  

 

There are quite a few different sealants on the market today. Stan’s NoTubes Sealant, Caffelatex, Slime, and Super Juice are a couple popular brands. There is no wrong sealant, if you’re confident in the sealants sealing power and you’re happy using that product I would say do not turn back. Whether you like a liquid, Foam, Gel, or making your home brew concoction with glitter, antifreeze or whatever, you will have to find the right sealant that works well with the tire and rim you are using. What is your working tubeless set up? Feel free to post a comment; it might spark up a conversation on my part 3 discussing the full set up and overall benefits of running tubeless.