A mountain bike is usually equipped with tires with inner tubes. The main advantage of this system lies in its ease of installation. To ride tubeless, you need to have adapted tires and valves, to add rim tape as well as a liquid which permits a good seal and keeps air in the tire.

The advantages of tubeless

First off, you will definitely have fewer flats. The tire can always come off the rim (for example, when the tire pressure is low) or it can tear, but often, depending on the size of the tire or the way the tire came off the rim, you can remedy the situation right on the path. If the problem is too big, you can easily inset a tube and finish your ride.

This option will also let you use lower air pressure, thus providing a better grip on the trail. There are several factors to consider, including the state of the trail, your weight and that of the bike, in order to know what pressure to maintain. Normally, it shouldn’t go below 25 psi with a tube tire, whereas a tubeless tire can have as little as 20 psi…which is better when it’s damp.

To make the transition to tubeless

Some high-end bikes have everything needed to go tubeless without incurring any extra costs. The installation, however, can be complicated. A visit to a shop could be advisable.

If your bike doesn’t already come with this kind of kit, medium or high-end bikes will generally have tires that allow the transition. Anticipate about $25 per tire to add valve, rim tape and sealer. If you have to buy tires, as well, anticipate a total of $100 per tire.

Keep in mind that even if you ride tubeless, you should always have a tube and an air pump or air cartridge with you to make sure you don’t end your outing on foot if you have a flat.