How our local trails changed my mind on tubeless tires

I was sure tubeless tires were just extra work for no real gain. In my shop, I used to advise against them, thinking inner tubes were simpler. But over the last two years, I've watched our local mountain bike trails get rougher with more rocks and roots. Riders kept coming in with pinch flats, and many started asking for tubeless conversions. After hearing one regular praise his tubeless setup for months without a flat, I tried it on my own bike. The first time was a bit messy with the sealant, but I got it right. Since then, I've had zero flats on the same trails that used to ruin my rides. Now I see the value and recommend tubeless to anyone facing tough terrain here.

3 comments

3 Comments

jake_wright943mo ago

I still have sealant stains on my garage ceiling from my first attempt, no joke. Took me forever to scrub it off, but now I just add a bit every few months and it's fine. Totally worth the initial hassle for not having to fix flats on the trail.

hannah_lewis3mo ago

Tell me more about the messy sealant part. I mean, my first try was a disaster, idk maybe it's just me but I had it all over my garage floor. What did you use to clean it up, or did you just let it dry? Also, how often are you adding more sealant now that you've made the switch?

the_morgan3mo ago

No way, you had no flats after that sealant mess @hannah_lewis described!