Understanding Tubeless Tires
Tubeless tires are designed to seal punctures on their own, eliminating the need for inner tubes. They are filled with sealant, a liquid that quickly clogs holes as they occur.
Fixing a Tubeless Flat
1. Locate the Puncture
- Examine the Tire: Carefully inspect the tire for any visible punctures, cuts, or debris.
- Check the Sealant: If you can't find a puncture, the sealant might have sealed it. Check if the sealant is still wet or if there's a build-up around the hole.
2. Removing the Puncture Object
- If you find the object: Carefully remove it.
- If the object is embedded: Use a tool like a tire lever to pry it out.
3. Re-inflating the Tire
- Pump the Tire: Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
- Check for Leaks: Listen for hissing and watch for leaks around the puncture area.
4. Adding Sealant (If Necessary)
- Check Sealant Level: If the sealant is dry or there's no sealant in the tire, add more sealant through the valve stem.
- Shake Well: Shake the sealant bottle vigorously before adding it to the tire.
5. Re-inflating and Checking
- Re-inflate: Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
- Check for Leaks: Listen for hissing and watch for leaks around the puncture area.
Tips for Success
- Clean the Puncture: Before adding sealant, clean the area around the puncture with a cloth.
- Use a Tire Plug: If the puncture is large or the sealant doesn't seal it, consider using a tire plug.
- Re-inflate and Check Regularly: After fixing a flat, re-inflate the tire to the recommended pressure and check for leaks regularly.
