Tubeless tires have earned their place in the cycling world for a reason. With lower pressures, better traction, and fewer flats, the benefits are huge. But if you’re new to tubeless, or just unsure about how to maintain your setup, you're not alone.
We’re here to break it down: what’s normal, what’s not, and how to keep your tubeless tires running smoothly—ride after ride.
1. New Tires Need Time to Seal
Just mounted fresh tubeless tires? Don’t panic if they’re losing air a little faster than you expected. Most new tires need a few rides to fully seal. The sealant needs time to work into every tiny pore and seam—especially if the tires have porous sidewalls or you’re using a conversion kit. A quick spin around the block might not cut it; plan for at least one or two solid rides to help the process along.
2. Sealing the Deal: Rim Tape Essentials
An essential component of any tubeless setup is the rim tape. It seals the spoke holes on your rim, creating an airtight barrier that allows the tire to hold pressure without an inner tube.
- Proper installation is key—if the tape isn’t applied evenly or securely, it can compromise the entire system.
- When swapping tires, be cautious with tire levers to avoid scratching or lifting the tape, which can lead to air leaks.
- It’s also worth noting that a broken spoke can puncture the tape from the inside, so it’s a good idea to inspect your rim tape any time you service your wheels.
3. Air Loss Is Normal—But Watch for Patterns
It’s common for front and rear tires to lose air unevenly, especially when they’re new. This doesn’t mean something is wrong—just that tires, rims, and setups vary. Rear tires often carry more weight and might seal faster or slower depending on the conditions. Pay attention to how each tire behaves over time and you’ll get a feel for what’s normal on your setup.
4. “Sweating” Sidewalls?
You might notice tiny beads or a faint mist of Tubeless sealant “sweating” through the sidewalls of your tires—especially after a fresh install. It might look weird, but it’s usually completely normal. As the sealant finds its way into the tire’s microscopic pores, it can weep through the sidewalls. With time and a few good rides, this sweating usually stops as the sealant sets.
Later in the season, though, if sweating reappears, it could mean your sealant is drying out or getting old—a sign it’s time for a refresh (more on that below).
5. Check Your Sealant Every 4–6 Months
Sealant isn’t forever. It dries out over time, especially in hot or dry climates. As it dries, its ability to plug punctures or maintain air pressure drops significantly. Make it a habit to check your sealant every 4 to 6 months—or more often if you ride frequently. Some riders do this at the start of each new season. You can check through the valve or pop off the tire bead to take a look.
*Tony's Tip: Just like checking your car's oil, here's an easy way to check your tire sealant. Remove the valve core and insert a zip tie—if it comes out dry, it’s a clear sign you’re low on sealant. Top it up to avoid any unexpected surprises on your ride. If the color is yellow-ish or dark, it might a good idea to replace it.
6. Don’t Forget the Valve Cores
Tubeless valve cores are the unsung heroes of a tubeless setup—but they don’t last forever. Over time, they can get clogged with dried sealant, making it harder to inflate your tires or maintain pressure. It can become problematic if you have a flat on a ride... A sticky valve is a telltale sign. We recommend replacing your valves at least once a season (they’re cheap, and it’s easy to do with a valve core tool).
Conclusion
Tubeless might come with a learning curve, but once it’s dialed in, it’s hard to go back. A little maintenance goes a long way—check your pressure before every ride, refresh your sealant regularly, and keep a small repair kit on hand just in case (Dynaplug, OneUp or Lezyne tools are some of our favorites).
Remember: weird leaks, sidewall sweats, and slow seals are all part of the journey. With time, you’ll learn what’s normal for your setup—or not— and gain the confidence to handle whatever the ride throws your way.
Get More Tips
Leave a comment