To Tube or not to Tube // For O/Ts only

O/T = Old Timers like me.
I have seen a lot of changes in my 30+ years of riding. One of which was the change from tube to tubeless tires. And with the exception of a few bikes I have had for only a short while and never changed tires, I always put a tube in them even if the rim says tubeless.

So...I would like to hear what you have to say. Mainly, tubeless, do you trust them on a two wheeler? and of course any experience, comments or concerns.

 

Meh, tubeless all the way, even in my pedal bike.

 

I have had less flat tires with tubless over the years, I trust a tubless tire more. It is much easier to fix a flat on the road with a tubless, just plug and go. No need to take the tire off to get to the tube.

 

There is a good reason they went tubeless. Same as why passenger vehicles went tubeless. It's better and safer.

 

quite common for old guys to do :twisted:

I wouldn't bother myself,unless it's spoked wheels I would always fit them tubeless, there is no advantage at all to fitting tubes and some disadvantages

 

Thank you all for the Advice...

Almost time for new shoes so this time I'm going tubeless and no I won't forget new valve stems

 

You're going to want to inspect the beading surface on the rim carefully. If it's pitted or got crap built up the tubeless won't seal. Make sure you clean them up before installing the new tire.

 

This is VERY important!! Not only will it provide a better seal overall, it will also make it that when you check your tire pressure, you wont find yourself having to keep adding a little every time you do so.

Since the rims can get pretty gummed up and nasty (especially if it is the first time going tubeless/replacing really old tires) what i do/did is have the tire shop take off the old tires, then give the rims back to me for ME to clean them up. Then it doesn't a) waste the tire shops time b)waste my money c)i can assure it was done well. I start by using a solvent and a green scotch pad, then 1000 grit wet sandpaper, then 2000 grit. it makes them SHINE. Be sure to get all in the crevices, etc.

Sure, no one will ever know how beautifully clean it is under there but you, but its a good feeling knowing so Plus, they have a much lesser chance of leaking.


It took me a few hours and my hands were pitch black when i was done, but it was no doubt worth it in my mind.