How To Fix A Punctured Tubeless Tyre | GCN Tech Puncture Repair Guide

[@gcntech]

Do you have any tips for repairing a tubeless tyre at the side of the road? Share them in the comments below

[@mitchrich5015]

GCN Tech helpful video, thanks. I’d be v interested to see what the GCN presenters each take out on normal rides, and how they carry them. I remember a good video from Ollie when at CW about his storage bottle and I’d be keen to see the differences in what the presenters pack into their saddle bags / pockets / bottles.

[@finelytunedrideftr1932]

You can also use normal innertube patches t patch the hole in the tyre, BUT you best to use REMA TIP TOP Special Cement when doing so. (as normal innertube glue doesn't work on tyres)

[@Robinators]

@@finelytunedrideftr1932 normal innertube glue works just fine, done and tested.

[@CyclingLifePT]

I always carry another tyre and tube to replace the punctured one. Doing that at the side of the road with temperatures of 5°C or less is no pic-nic.

[@CyclingLifePT]

... and i'm glad i don't use tubeless ...

[@stephenphillips6212]

Having ridden tubeless for 3 years now, I can only recommend carrying an old fashioned tyre patch kit. Just glue the rubber patch directly to the inner wall. Don’t abrade the tyre with sandpaper as you would a tube. That works really well and lasts the life of the tyre. You’ll need to carry a pack of tissues too, obvs. And some rim tape because simply deflating the tyre can dislodge the valve slightly, and this needs a perfect seal to hold 80psi. The original rim tape will have set itself around the old valve position and therefore will need ripping off and redoing. And if it’s raining you’ll need to pack a tent because all this is impossible in the wet.

[@gcntech]

Good tip about the tent. We often leave home without ours and have to walk home in the rain

[@BruceBaklarian]

That's a really good tip, that's for that!

[@stephenphillips6212]

@@gcntech please take a worn-out tubeless road tyre and experiment with different ‘tubeless tyre repair kits’. Some have proven effective at sealing MTB tyres but really, they’re a different product. We really need a test of road-tubeless remedies, as the problems and advantages associated with tubeless road tyres (thin walls, high pressure, light weight) are v different from MTB tyres (thick tread, low pressure, weight not an issue). I can’t find any independent tests along these lines, possibly because of sponsorship sensitivity. If you find one that works... I suspect you won’t. I have tried the worms you used (useless) and a dynaplug kit (expensive, useless) I gave up once I realised I was throwing money away, and ruining tyres

[@danhasnedl_CZ]

Yes, I am using the same technique (tire patch kit) even on a side-wall puncture. On the 28mm tire.

[@FlyingFun.]

This sounds much like a much better repair and is exactly how car tyres have repaired for decades. I can see how the worms make for a faster fix at the side if the road though. I think I'd be tempted to have all options available. For now though I'm still tubes on my bikes but with slime inside which works most of the time but just lately I've had flats which I think were my fault for not keeping tyre presure checked regularly.

[@anibalsanchez9990]

Had a puncture a month ago. Used a plug on the side of the road, the repair took less than a minute and still working perfectly.

[@anata5127]

Yep. I repaired tires on the side of the road at least 8-10 times during 5 years. Never had problem, 1 min and done. A lot of my friends use clincher tires. Repairs are really time consuming and require few tools.

[@richardlocke7264]

Good to know- mine have always resealed. My experiences setting up tubeless is that they are very difficult to put the tire in the rim ( too tight) and a road side attempt to put an inter tube in would likely be next to impossible.

[@growmiezhomiez8760]

How do I fix a flat from a thorn on my tubeless?

[@SamFromVACE]

@@anata5127 Do you continue to ride the plugged tire till it is worn out or you would swap them out for a new tire when you reach home?

[@anata5127]

@@SamFromVACE Depending on tire. I run quality tires with many plugs

[@dparrigo]

Since shifting to tubeless last year, I have had two punctures that the sealant would not close up. I have used "bacon strips" to seal these up, but last week I had a puncture that the strips just would not seal, and would not allow for a second strip to be inserted. I had to call for help to get transport back home...nothing worse. I have since done two things. First, I bought a Stan's darts system, and it did seal that puncture, so no more "bacon" for me. Second, I bought the new Vittoria Air-Liner Road foam inserts and will be installing them with the new tires I have ordered. Really looking forward to riding with the new setup.

[@KOL630]

I plan to use an inner tube if that ever happens to me

[@richardhall4830]

Or simply go back to inner tubes and always get home.

[@domsquaaa4323]

~

[@LeicaPunk]

Is there anything worse? Ehm yeah, that creaking you can't find even after completely rebuilding your bike.

[@gcntech]

Ok you got us, that is WORSE!

[@Kimberly_Sparkles]

That noise is awful.

[@core2zero]

found mine, need a new bottom bracket

[@evanr1940]

returning home from ride and finding you didnr record anything

[@dtchua]

Found mine.. needed to re-tighten the bolts on the crankset.

[@jimbrown1687]

Was having trouble getting my tire back on the rim (even with levers). The bit near the end about centering the tire all the way around did the trick. Thanks.

[@dpgrenfree]

My Giant TL states on the rim NOT to use levers.. how the..

[@Leo_cycles]

It’s tyre not tire bruh I’m 8

[@FreedomOfSport]

@@Leo_cycles Hey kiddo. Here is some information for you. The spelling tyre is used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and most current and former Commonwealth nations after being revived in the 19th century. Both tyre and tire were used in the 15th and 16th centuries. The United States did not adopt the revival of tyre, and tire is the only spelling currently used there

[@hectorhernandez1983]

​@@Leo_cycles haha. We speak American English here😮

[@Brian-pk1ol]

I’ve converted back to tubes from a tubeless set up. Got standard for the last time. You puncture less, but when it happens it’s more than likely catastrophic. Moved to tuboletos. Bit pricey but so far worth it!

[@raymondblakeley8823]

first time with tubeless tyre's. was concerned about punctures. This video was just the help i heeded

[@blairanderson9098]

What a useful video! I just took my tubeless outside for only my fourth or fifth ride since I received a tubeless tire and had a flat. I had little to no idea how to repair it until I watched your video. Thank you!

[@chrisfromfrome9016]

Applying puncture repair cement to the repair strip adds some extra security. Have done it loads of times, always works a treat.

[@gcntech]

great tip Chris, we should have included that

[@peterwhittle4937]

I've had this fail a couple of times, when I haven't waited for the glue to cure. Patience is needed.

[@nbrandart5094]

@@peterwhittle4937 @gcntech Peter, my absolute top tip when using rubber solution glue to fix punctures is, this: once you've put the glue on the tyre/inner tube, set it on fire for a couple of seconds (burns gently like a Christmas pudding); this burns off the solvent and leaves the glue with just the right amount of tackiness. It saves so much time and makes it much easier when the it's raining or the air is damp. Try it, I think that you'll be pleasantly surprised.

[@FrankLavoy]

I'm new to TL tires and found that, after my first puncture, it sealed up nicely and was able to finish my ride with only 5km left. I was pleasantly surprised and hope I don't get any others. However, with these tips, I'm now more confident in my ability to manage any future punctures. Thanks for sharing.

[@Andy-sj2dv]

Just bought a new bike with tubeless so found this interesting ; will definitely never ride without my phone in the back pocket, lol.

[@mikekeslin69]

When reinstalling a tubeless tire, it helps to keep the valve at the top for that last bit. This leaves an unencumbered valley for the rest of the tire beads to slide into.

[@harlowcyclingpage731]

My experience is on my review blog, best advice is if you run into trouble is clean up any sealant before putting the bike away for the night, it took me two,days to clean a gravel tire up good enough to reuse. Next time I had a problem I simply cleaned the tyre and wheel, 20 minutes is all it took, there is a couple of videos on my review blog of the Agro I had with cleaning, great video GCN, keep them coming, clear and informative, thanks

[@rodmarch1306]

Nice video! There is one problem I've encountered that may be quite rare. Some tires do not seat well on some rims until you reach higher pressures than you want for riding, particularly true when running a tube after a puncture. If the tire hasn't fully seated on the rim, the tire may wobble side to side or seem to have a lump in it. You may even think the tire is defective. Increasing the tire pressure to get it fully seated and then lowering it back to your riding pressure can solve this. I had this problem with Schwalbe G-One Allrounds (gravel tire) on Roval CLX rims; had to get them up to 105-110 psi before they fully seated, then lowered back to about 50 psi for riding.

[@reidwagner1508]

I have a tubeless gravel. I always thought I had to use a tube if I flatted. But you showed me the “needle and thread” tool. I’ll carry some disposable gloves and a tire patch as you demonstrated. This was one of the best GCN vids I’ve watched. Thanks!

[@MildStallion1]

I'm getting a bike with a tubeless setup next season, this was a great video to watch ahead of that. A plug repair set will be in my saddlebag!

[@pgbus1]

You are an excellent presenter. BBC 4 needs you!

[@GeorgiaLowe-y3b]

this is the best video I have ever watched. thank you for saving my cycling life :) so well explained and covers absolutely everything

[@adamrice617]

Having just got a new bike with tubeless setup already installed, I had toyed with the idea of switching back to what I know best (tubes), as I am a little daunted, but this does help!

[@richardgreen6377]

Yeah, me too hate to stop during an event and have the drama .But you never know how tricky it will be until it happens I guess.

[@F1ll1nTh3Blanks]

Yeh, I don't wanna risk the faff.

[@nicholaspomponio1669]

Gr8 job! My daughter and I are triathletes. She has no clue how to fix a flat - I think tubeless is the way to go for her. Thank you!

[@kendalltrembearth9056]

I’ve yet to suffer a puncture with my tubeless set up & dread the day it’ll happen. I do carry a tube just in case & a tubeless repair kit. Your tips for a tyre boot & disposable gloves are excellent.

[@kendalltrembearth9056]

Since posting my comment above I suffered my 1st tubeless puncture. White sealant spewed out, but 5’ later a bung was inserted & I was on my way. Much easier than expected😊

[@aciesunga5652]

Ive watched tons of GCN vids and this is one of the most helpful vids ive seen

[@mikejoseph425]

I have tried to use tubeless on a number of occasions with different tyres and different plugs which has cost me a small fortune. In the summer they are just about OK but in the winter if you get a hole that is difficult to plug with cold hands they are a total waste of time I ride electric so weight is not such an issue so I ride Marathon Plus and I make sure that in the event of a puncture my innertube has a removeable valve so I can pump some latex in the innertube and hopefully repair the puncture until I get home as Marathons are not so easy to get off and on again I think the biggest mistake with tubeless in that in an attempt to be weight weenies the tyres are just not tough enough for road riding and I look forward to a tubeless Marathon Plus

[@njm3211]

Love tubeless!!! I can see at least 7 sealed punctures on my current rear tubeless tire. I've never been left on the side of the road.

[@VG-oc3jw]

How long do the plugs stay in place? Do you find plug pops out due to high tire pressure? Or from riding

[@njm3211]

@@VG-oc3jw No plugs visible, just shiny spots 4-5mm in diameter on surface of tire where punctures were sealed

[@driftwood1752]

@@njm3211 Muc off sealant and plugs?

[@drewsmith7726]

I haven’t used tubeless yet, hope to try it out soon, but that tip about how to get a tight fitting tire back on the rim was great!

[@HeartNDagger18]

I recently purchased a bike with tubeless set up, I assumed it was going to have tubes. After watching this video, some research and reading the comments, I am going back to the bike shop to get tube tyres.

[@mikestv3782]

I bought a pair of Mavic tubeless tyres in February this year, I punctured after 14kms and had to get a cab back because I couldn't get the tyre off to use my spare inner tube. That was my first and last ride using them and I sold them a few months later for £100 less than I paid for them and after watching this horror show of a video I am glad I did!

[@darrencripps]

Yep, got a set of Mavic Allroad that are a nightmare to get G Ones on. Also had a set of Ultegra tubeless ready 6800 wheels which were a pain to get tyres on and off. I'll stick to tubes.

[@JohnWilliams-qt2hw]

Same issue with Mavic Krysium wheels. Could not get to seal them 30 mins to get tyre off (three f us!) then another 20 mins to get tyre with tube back on. Repairs next day at home and plug blasted out and whole garage and bikes covered with sealant. Went back to tubes.

[@Dorr234]

@@JohnWilliams-qt2hw lol, oh dear haha my new bike is tubeless, i got a puncture last week and it seems is not sealing buh

[@danielashleybaker]

😂😂😂 . This video is like a PSA to not buy tubeless. I've been stranded more with tubeless than any other reason; tubeless is a joke at least for road riding. I need to revert my setup back to tubed but I'm so lazy and not wanting to clean that goop out I just ride my other bike haha.

[@yatharthchaturvedi2874]

Weak

[@bobferguson1696]

I use tubeless but carry a spare inner tube, Thinking I'll get a plug repair kit

[@ddavidd430]

Dynaplugs are far easier and better than the ‘worms’ Ollie is using.

[@dpgrenfree]

@@ddavidd430 Thanks for the tip.. I couldn't get Topeak 'worms' working at all.. just made a bigger hole with the 'repair' tool.

[@878787GH]

@@ddavidd430 Are they $60 easier? Holy crap!

[@ddavidd430]

@@878787GH Not that much in the UK 😂 Dynaplug Racer www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07NWQ5QDB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FBBK65VPHSHDW4K8FCMA

[@hussainalhelli]

I am using Stan's dart, very easy and worth the price ,,

[@jimbojet8728]

I like to be independent when I’m out on the bike, fix my punctures myself at the side of the road. I’ve never failed since going tubeles. Even if the tyre doesn’t fully self seal, I’ve been able to use a Dynaplug , reinflate the tyre and away. One tip I’d give is, deflate the tyre when you get home. Releasing any co2 you’ve put in. Refill using track pump and air! The air in your tyre is predictable whilst co2 isn’t. There are expansion characteristics to co2 that are different to air. Why risk tyres becoming deflated simply because the co2 has leaked out in some way? Nah! Fill up with air. You’ll know where you are then?

[@DEAR7340]

In three years, 15k miles, I have never had a tubeless puncture. Still, I am superstitious about leaving the inner tube at home and just relying on the repair kit "bacon strips". I have never seen those in action, so I am still skeptical. I also carry a tire boot, in case I tear out a sidewall. I don't know if they can be used in a tubeless application, but a sidewall tear can also defeat an innertube. I live in a very remote area, with spotty cell phone coverage. A "rescue ride" is not always easy to come by. Additionally, I live in a climate where you have to top-off sealant every three months or so; lots of my buddies have neglected that and then claim that the "system" failed them.

[@ricf9592]

The fluid supplied by the shop which put my wheel set together, didn't seal. But the top grade stuff did. But only up to low tyre pressure. I punctured once after 5 miles but rode another 80 miles with no feeling I was having to work too hard. Turns out there was only 2 Bar of pressure left. It took a conventional patch on the inside of the tyre to fix the hole properly. Takes soap and water and drying out to enable the patch to stick. But it does the job.

[@dagoodwin92]

Brilliant video, thank you very much for providing it! Makes me feel much more confident heading out there.

[@samdickinson9302]

I've had way more flats running tubeless than I think I should have, most of which don't self-seal. One reason might be that I'm heavy (90kgs) and I've been running them at a lower PSI than when using inner tubes. *Tubeless + heavy rider + lower PSI = flats* in my experience. I've come to the conclusion that I need to drop weight, increase tyre pressure, or switch back to tubes. Probs all three actually...

[@shellderp]

I'm 90kg and never had a flat, try more pressure

[@alexyounghunlee]

Great video to let cyclists know inner tube tyres are more convenient. I just prefer inner tube setup. If you ride on tarmac mainly I don't think tubeless has much advantage, what's the point of carrying plug kit + tubes and running tubeless for road? I haven't got a punctures for almost three years and just carrying tube in the back pocket is just more assuring for me. If you get punctures often on tarmac, I suggest you change tyre pressure. Of course, tubeless will be beneficial for more gravel and offroad.

[@fergusdenoon1255]

I suppose for really good riders the weight saving on no inner tubes will make a difference to their performance, for me not so much.

[@marcm2957]

No one ever seems to mention the advantage of tubeless running lower pressure on a road bike. Much more comfortable ride

[@mauricetremblay1324]

Excellent video. I have had several punctures and would struggle to get the tyre back on. Your “ little dip” trick is so obviously brilliant. Cheers!

[@beeble2003]

It's not a trick -- it's just how you put tyres on bike wheels.

[@MrWobling]

It's also not enough for some combinations of tyre and rim. I now carry a Koolstop Tyre Jack, especially on club runs, as it can get the group moving again more quickly if anyone struggles with getting the tyre back on the rim, whether or not they use tubeless.

[@giantfastroadgoprofootage2601]

after watching this you have sold me on innertubes, my new bike is tubeless but converting to innertubes, i ride about 5000 miles a year about 2 punctures a year, usually "bad luck" ones!

[@doctorj7112]

Having a set of clinchers is so much easier. Dealing with the sealant, plugs, co2 comptaiblpiltiy, etc., makes all the things the tubeless systems solves another problem added.

[@CommunityDeveloper]

This is a really useful and informative video showing the realities of using Tubeless tyres. I can certainly see the advantages of these tyres for professional riders in competitive races. However, for most cyclist the amount of work needed to fix a puncture is considerably more than tubes. The tubeless system does seem to require more tools to be taken on a ride and still requires a spare inner tube as well. I do 100km to 400km rides and I have no motivation to move to tubeless tyres, as maintenance simplicity is a highly valuable aspect to the ride. Using good quality tyres at a high pressure to avoid punctures (none in the last decade) seems preferable to lower pressure and more punctures, with more involved repair for anything but the smallest puncture. Tubeless tyre repair - Hack or Bodge? Definitely a bodge (not Ollies fault, just the reality of the tubeless system)

[@cstewart3671]

I’m new to running Tubeless and I must say my saddle bag is stuffed with ‘get out of jail cards’ just in case I get a puncture ~ gone are the days of travelling light! I had a puncture on the first ride with the set up and the system got me home on a lower pressure. But it never healed fully and it had to be patched from the inside to fully sort it (beginners luck!). It was a pin hole too so really sapped my confidence of the reliability of the system…. I live in dread of a puncture and at every opportunity I’m checking the tyres are still hard on a ride 🙈 ~ enough said!

[@simonhenry1769]

There's also constant loss of pressure and sealant leaking through sidewalls so need to pump up before every ride. That's on some allegedly good tyres too, Schwalbe Pro One. There are pros and cons both ways but ride comfort is important to me as have back issues so moved to tubeless but it's not plain sailing. Oh yeah the sealant also dries out so needs topping up at intervals too.

[@joergthierer8861]

I’ll definitely get a plug kit. Got a puncture this week where I could not continue and sealant came out in large quantities. Before that more than 18000 km without a puncture that forced me to stop.

[@Raducanu983]

Running Tubeless since 2 years and two punctured tyres which were not fixed by the sealant: - Long cut (3-4cm) on the tyre wall - Rim tape came loose and air was lost through the spoke nipple. In both cases a innertube was used to continue the ride. I love Tubeless!

[@marcpost4034]

I run tubes. 2 flats in 2 years. 6-7 minutes to fix. In both cases an inner tube was used to continue the ride.

[@Dorr234]

@@marcpost4034 seriously, how do you do that lo, I got 3 punctures in 10 days, two different bikes lool aahh ffs

[@Dorr234]

i am new to tubeless.. new bike, just one month and got a puncture already and It is not sealing :(

[@LainOTN]

​@@marcpost4034 I run tubeless since 2 years ago, 15000Km. 0 non-sealed flats. Everyone has it's own experiences. :)

[@apismellifera7903]

Very interesting - I think I’ll stick to clinchers. Being a pedant though, the tube may herniate through the tyre but probably not melt and haemorrhage through. KAB

[@neil78]

Got a puncture on my tubeless tire last week and while it did lose air, it was able to seal itself eventually. The best part though was that I also have tubeless inserts and these allowed me to ride back even on low air. The inserts are a pain to install but the extra security for me is worth it, especially since in the past I've had some issues with the tires unseating after a flat as Ollie mentioned, making them very difficult to reinflate.

[@tommccafferty5591]

Another tip for reinstalling the tire, (tyre), I got from the owner of my LBS is to push the last bit of bead over the rim at the site of the valve. The tyre, (tire), is better able to sit in the center of the rim without being held up by the valve, reading just a little more slack to help you get ta=hat last bit over.

[@monty2078]

Just carry a couple of fire levers

[@rogerandrick5031]

The best way (and the way it is designed to work) is to push the plug ENTIRELY into the tire. Then pull out until the tool is free and the plug ends are still inside the tire. Then use the notch in the tool to disengage it from the plug 'loop' that is now sticking out of the tire. Btw, the rough part of the tool shaft can be used to slightly rough up the hole edges if needed to get the plug to grab on to the hole better. Note: This will depend on the tool, I just realized. If the notch is at the very tip you will have to use the twist method as trying to pull the plug out will push it off into your tire. If the notch is on the side you can fully insert it and then pull it partially back out.

[@kevinm7731]

Absolutely correct that's how you plug auto tires.

[@Edmond347]

Fantastic video. Beyond useful and instructive.

[@robertgray9807]

I've been using tubeless on Shamal and Bora wheels for the past eight years. They're awesome save for that day they won't seal. I've used plugs unsuccessfully more than successfully, both the 'bacon' strip types as well as the brass-nosed plugs. Neither type is foolproof and more often than not I've had to resort to the innertube repair option. I've even had to walk my bike 3 km to a bikeshop more than once. This was the result of sidewall punctures. Best advice: avoid imperfect road surfaces, as these seem highly correlated with tire repair failures.

[@stephaniecharleboislewis9950]

I'll add that you should always check your tires after every ride. Look for signs of sealant on the tire and frame. Using a wet rag on the tire can help show where sealant has been used to clog a recent hole. You will want to top up your sealant more frequently if you're seeing sings of sealant usage (decompress to top up). Use the same sealant as the one that is already inside your tire as not all are compatible. Love your videos GCN--they're so helpful !

[@aleshinteregger8554]

ill add that it is wise to flush a toilet not once, but at least 5 times EVERY time

[@jerrysteinberg2445]

I have trouble installing a tubeless tire when I am at home. Extremely tight fit. I don’t see any possible way to insert a tube in the tire and getting it back on the rim. When I tried using “ bacon “ strips they just popped out. Next time I will be trying Stans darts.

[@johnhermens5002]

I had a pair of tubeless wheels for 2 years and gladly sold them to get a pair of clinchers back. I flatted only once per season. It usually ended my season with those wheels.

[@davidhuck1683]

Now this time u done a very good and helpful Video. As i am running TL for a year or so ....there were some really good hints. Thank U very much. You see you do not always have to crack jokes for your friends n channel. Sometimes just your infos is all one needs. Cheers and keep going. Greets Dave from Vienna. Much appriciated!!!

[@rachking3201]

Excellent ! Super informative- I've had my tubeless gravel bike for about two years and haven't yet noticed any punctures, but I worry about this on every bike-packing trip.. didn't know about the plugs, good to know. If the plugs are needed, does this tyre pretty much need replacing asap? How long can you ride on a plugged tyre? Video saved for potential future roadside catastrophes !

[@juntin810]

the plug technology is the same fashion repairing on on punctured automobile tires depending on its location; if on the shoulder close to sidewall, it won’t work.

[@ktbikefun]

@@juntin810 exactly my case ..

[@Akrapovic581]

Great video with epic real life tips.

[@frankharradence4345]

Good video...going tubeless with my on order Shand gravel bike....never used them as yet; this video eases my concerns over dealing with possible punctures...

[@blitzgaming45]

My Favorite Cycling Channel!

[@gcntech]

Thanks for all the support

[@sepiarain]

Thanks Ollie. I am happy to say I am now confident enough to pursue this upgrade.

[@logicaldad1917]

Great video... Especially the point about checking inside before putting in new tube.

[@harrysmith6163]

Which is no different from tubed. I cannot believe anyone wouldn’t know this already?

[@glenspringle7337]

I have use a couple of those techniques on tube tire...glueing in an piece of old tire to cover up a tire sidewall cut (short term fix only). Also, the recently rebuilt rims on my bike have a profile such that, to get the tire on, I need to push the bead to the centre passed the lip to create a “little more” bead diameter to push the last bit on.

[@ESHANABROOK]

This is my first year for tubeless, the tires don't seem to seal as well in the wet? I am going to get the repair kit. I have a puncture that is super slow, but I can go for an hour ride ok, it is in the tread. Luckily my floor pump easily popped the tire back on the rim, when I added more sealant. Salem MA.

[@fmstrat2104]

Great job, but the takeaway is to stick with tubes. And definitely don't put latex tubes into a tire that has previously been set up tubeless. The sealant reacts with the latex and tire and tube get glued together into a horrible mess. If you're racing use tubs. If you're not just enjoy a few moments on the roadside putting in a new tube, or better yet, just relax and just put a patch on the punctured tube.

[@frankreyes4]

The fine GCN presenters have to shill products for their advertisers . I’m ok with it. I won’t take the bait, but the quality of content from GCN is the best on KZbin. Thanks for the commitment to the sport, GCN.

[@kentcyclist5330]

I used a stick from the side of the road to plug a fairly major puncture that wouldn't seal. Still there and still working!

[@marknorman4389]

Hi Ollie, just wanna know, what kit do you carry in your toolbag? Is it tube, pump, Co2, Plugs, plug tool and patches?

[@DiceySoundAndVision]

Hi Ollie, you missed out the messy bit once you get home. How about repairing that hole in your (very expensive) tubeless to get it back on the road again as it was intended. Ive left the worm in only to have it fail on a subsequent ride. Inner tube patches only stick with special glue apparently. Any thoughts?

[@6AlphaMikeCharlie9]

there´s a good tire plug kit out there what is built into the handlebar plugs, it´s pretty good and you always have it with you.

[@treepinx7324]

Got a new bike 2 months ago. I've ridden 800 miles now, first 400 with tubes and second 400 tubeless (same tires). I got 2 punctures in the first 400 miles and 2 punctures that didn't instantly reseal in the second 400 as well. The 2 on tubeless were actually the same puncture though, and now that I've picked up one of those plug kits about a week ago and plugged it I think it will be smooth sailing. I've got an internally geared rear hub with axle bolts, so if I want to put a new tube in the rear wheel I have to carry around a wrench as well.

[@eduardorichard4845]

I needed this video so much! Thanks for doing this, just recovered my shaken up trust in tubeless tires.

[@daveellsworth8553]

I have a tubeless setup & had a puncture which I tried to repair with the correct tool. The tool I used to place the plug in made the hole quite a bit bigger, consequently the air kept pushing the slug out! Ended up having to put a tube in. Now I'm batting for both sides now 😪

[@philging]

I ride with inner tubes but use the Smart Tubes with the Slime sealant pre-installed and have never had a puncture for years. I carry a spare tube just in case but if I had to change tubes I wouldn't have to go through all that mess and nonsense. Tubeless offers no real advantage over Smart Tubes but presents plenty of disadvantages in times of trouble.

[@mynameisyasser]

"Pull out your tool and leave the plug behind" (2020, Dr. Bridgewood et al) _______________________

[@roivosemraiva]

Old school...old world inner tube still works as a back up.... had my experience having to put an inner tube on my friends Tubeless tyres..

[@randy4768]

My 2020 Giant Fastroad Advance 1 road bike came with tubeless Gavia Fondo tires. No problems for 3,000 miles but the first week of June, I had two small punctures a few mm apart. Maybe I ran over a staple. Did not know until I stopped for lunch and saw a blob of black stuff on rear tire. Thought it was tar or asphalt but it was sealant. Took tire to bike shop for checkup, they said no way to patch but tire was keeping up pressure then they just added a little extra sealant. All fine for two weeks until last weekend. Seems every ride would knock off some of this blob and it would reseal, knock off, reseal, knock off, reseal. Sunday’s ride had to be canceled as rear went from 75 PSI to 45 PSI. I could not get value off to put in a tube. The nut was sealed to rim and sealant all over ground. Took bike to shop and valve had to cut off. No way I could have used a tube on the side of the road. I got rid of both tubeless tire and had shop put on new Armadillo folding clinchers and tubes. The shop owner said most customers have gone back to tubes for road bikes but tubeless is favorite for MTBs. I think I am sticking to tubes from now on. OPINIONS.

[@dnsussman]

I have used Tubeless tires for about a year now and have gotten small punctures that the sealant took care of. I once crashed into a wall, it was either that or getting hit by a truck and the tire blew and had to be replaced. Otherwise I really do like them. Thanks for the informative video.

[@callumthorsen5474]

I've never used on my bike but have 2 on my rear tyre of my zx12r motorbike great way to fix punctures only I'd recommend using vulcansing rubber glue aswell and twist 90⁰ before pulling out

[@ianwestley8348]

Is a plug a permanent fix or just a ‘get me home’ roadside solution? Should the tyre be replaced if nicked like this? Cheers

[@chrisswan3986]

Mate stick to clinchers just had a bad experience the other day. Cycled 80 mile got punture on glass 50in got the grommet in sealed to where I was going .had to put more sealant in at end of ride then couldn't get the tyre seated with track pump so took to shop to put on with air pressure so bought inner tube for route home then 2 days later the grommet gave way 2 miles in so tried another grommet . Fail another mile in so put inner tube in then bought extra inner tube and they save my journey home 😂

[@donald-parker]

If a tire plug works, is it considered a permanent fix that you can keep using in subsequent rides or is it just a measure to get you home, where you throw out the tire and put on a new one? And if you end up using a tube, do you just leave it in or take it out when you get home? Apparently tubeless tires are typically run at much lower pressures that tires with tubes. But if you use a tube in a repair scenario, what sort of pressure are you trying to restore. Normal "tubeless" pressure or normal "tube" pressure?

[@octofui]

Recently got a puncture on my tubeless setup (with muc-off sealant). Part of the issue seemed to be not enough wet sealant left and the other issue was the size of the puncture just being a bit too big for the sealant that was left to deal with. Will forever more probably carry a small sealant pouch, frame pump (co2 cartridges gone, so were my options!) and the plug kit. I hate tubes but I'll likely leave one in the bag as well.

[@teunluijbregts2533]

Brilliant!! You ride tubeless but still take an inner tube for when you puncture. By the way: I always do this - actually carry my spare tube inside my tire at all times 👍👍

[@MarquitoRH]

It’s called belt and braces 🤣🤣🤣

[@teunluijbregts2533]

@@MarquitoRH and wellingtons - knee high 🤣👍

[@danyboyno1]

I ride tubeless and carry a tube as well.....often have to donate my tube to people who have gone out without the correct kit 🤯

[@mib7483]

I have cut a tire and sealant would not do the job. I always have a strip of old tire that I cut from the sidewall. This makes a great patch to keep the tube from herniating out of the tire. I have rarely had a tubeless tire not seal.

[@Technotranceism]

Years ago Michelin developed a bladder system for wrc racing tires. I'm surprised no one has developed a similar system for bikes.

[@cheshirecat25]

Had my first significant tubeless puncture today - really glad a I had my plug with me, and it took WAY less time than any tube repair I've had to do in the past. Question for Ollie & the GCN Tech team: is there anything that needs to be done afterwards? I've read elsewhere on the web that the compromised tire may still leak air. Also, how many times can you plug a tubeless tire before needing to replace it entirely?

[@grahamtricker4103]

"Pop the tyre off the rim". Easier said than done with Tubeless!!! Can you imagine doing that with all that sealant spewing out everywhere by the side of the road? Also after a few months the sealant starts to dry out and acts as glue holding the tyre on the rim. I've given up on Tubeless after 5 years. Just too much faff and mess when you do get a problem.

[@maciejcieciera1829]

interesting observation - i've been using tubeless on my MTB bikes for years now - had only 2 situations when i struggled to seal the tire - both were due to severe cut while riding offroad. Sealant, a plug and co2 helped me to get back to start! Last year at the end of season i raced in dry conditions and hung the bike after the event for a couple of days - i've noticed maybe 20 small wet dots from sealant doing it's job - most probably some of these would mean flat tire if I'd be using tubes. Despite of many many thousands KMs on tarmac i've never had to repair tire (or even inflate it during ride). Cleaning (good) sealant is not an issue - water + some towel helps a lot. I am not adding sealant - always cleaning remaining mess and adding new portion. This year finally I bought road bike on tubeless rims but with regular tubes and tires on it and after a couple of months riding, first time in my entire life i had to repair tire while riding on tarmac! Not sure if this cut (approx 3mm) would be sealed quickly enough considering small volume of road tires (mine are 28mm) but definitely I am planning to convert to the tubeless on road bike as well.

[@Kixtia013]

Yes! I just found this out myself. I’m done with tubeless.

[@shmvon]

8:20 What a mess. Went through it once, now back to clinchers and inner tubes forever. In fact, they should have sealant for inner tubes. So you can throw the junk away when it fails.

[@gefloigle]

Actually, you can do that.

[@vinnyjhawer7847]

Oliver!, You the man. Love your vids

[@T-Lens]

I'd rather use Squirt sealant. The beadblocks seal holes up to 6mm. You can't even fill up sealant mixed with beadblocks through the valve. Beadblocks in the tire first, the latex alone can be added afterwards through the valve. I'm not carrying a spare innertube anymore now. Just a Stan's Dart and some co2 cartridges. Did the trick every time I got a puncture on my tubeless road tires. 👌🏻 This video threats every possible worse case scenario... That's quite intimidating for everyone thinking about going tubeless. Most of the time I can just continue riding after having a puncture. Plugging and co2 is about 5 minutes work. Never seen anyone change an innertube so quickly on the side of the road.

[@conradk5711]

Haven't heard Ollie's oft repeated "mum's living room carpet" line for a few weeks now

[@wfairhurst]

For me, if I’m riding in the rain and puncture, the rain will wash the sealant away and prevent it from plugging the hole. I’ve only had two ride ending punctures on tubeless tires, and both were in heavy rain.

[@georgehugh3455]

Good video, Ollie. A couple key tips (e.g. not to puncture rim tape when installing plug, check for _old_ sharp objects), and kudos for getting messy.

[@tzinrongkang1808]

Tubeless is a mess. Once puncture the sealant will spray around on a rotating wheel causing mess around eg. rim, bib and Jersey and its difficult to wash off. I'm one of the victim today (OMG my q36.5 dottore bib!) Gonna change back to latex tube.

[@markp8418]

My mate and I tried tubeless on our gravel bikes - never had so many punctures - and each one involved a major faff. Putting a tube in a tyre that has had sealant in it, in the rain on a gravel track is something I never want to do again - I am sticking with tubes; they are also cheaper! Just to add getting a tubeless tyre off the rim can be a difficult - I found my wtb tyres would be glued onto the wheel. My experience - tubeless may prevent pinchies by the sealants I tried (stans & caffe latex) do not work against sharpies

[@paddyotoole2058]

The whole point of tubeless is that you DO NOT take the tyre off and replace with an inner tube when you get a puncture. Keep the tyre on the rim and use the plugs always. Then reinflate. Been riding tubeless for years and I never carry an inner tube with me or had had to take tyre off the rim by the roadside etc. Only carry a small tubeless repair kit and CO2 inflator. Just make sure you use CO2 compatible sealant.

[@s.j.5850]

Great tips, especially since my bike came with tubeless tires! They can be a hassle getting them on & pumped up, but I guess that's the price you pay for having tubeless tires. I have pinched a hole in my inner tubes a number of times so I guess it's a bit of a toss up. Your excellent tips make it easier to wrestle with!

[@leigh9679]

Thanks for the vid! Found it helpful repairing a tubeless tyre on an MTB.

[@iberiksoderblom]

To follow up on this "Tubeless tires are harder to puncture..." I think you should do a test between tubeless/clinchers/tubulars in normal and "puncure resistant" types, to see if they really are more resistant. I've experienced, that some manufacurers seem to downgrade on materials in tyres, because they can get away with it and let the sealant save their shitty tires. How easy does a needle/flint-piece/sharp object poke or slice a hole in the tire !

[@rule3036]

Schwalbe G ones. Perforate if there is a thorn on a road 1 mile in the distance.....honestly real puncture magnets tubed or tubeless. Changed to an equivalent model by another brand. No probs....same bike, rider ,roads, time of year etc.

[@aquicktake]

One thing for certain, as a heavy rider 88kg, with clinchers I would get pinch flats all the time. Having to ride with 90-100psi doesn't help but ya with clinchers that's problem. Tubeless there is no innertube to get pinched so helps in that aspect tons.

[@douglasrogers3918]

Yes I punctured when riding the Great Divide mountain bike route - got a 3 inch nail through the tyre that then punctured the rim!

[@ghowell13]

This is such a faf, I'm even more certain I'll be sticking with innertubes for the forseeable future. And I have tubeless ready cabon wheels. Have for the last 18 months.

[@wasupwitdat1mofiki94]

I've had many punctures on tubeless tires and every one of them could not be fixed and ended with me having to install a tube. I've given up on the whole tubeless idea. It's much easier to go with what has worked for decades with the least mess and frustration. I'll stay with inner tubes. Not to mention tubes are cheaper to use too. The cost of sealant, tubeless rim tape, and tubeless valve stems equals many inner tubes.

[@deanmorelli783]

Very logical and helpful, thanks.

[@josephlaviolette146]

Okay so let me know if I have this correct now. On my clincher set up, in case I flat I need a spare tube and a pump or Co2. If I go tubeless, I will need to bring: A tube A pump AND Co2 A plug kit Sealant Gloves Something to wipe the inside of the tire with a tire boot And I know I'll have a flat because I will have a face full of sealant; or the back of my bibs and jersey will have a sealant stripe. The puncture might seal, but I might need more air. And then it might unseal at some point in my ride. Multiple times. With a similar messy process. This made my tire purchasing decision really easy. The same GP5000's I just wore out. I'm going to skip the tubeless

[@gcntech]

If you're talking about spares to take with you on a ride - you probably only need a spare tube and a pump if you're running tubeless

[@marcpost4034]

@@gcntech You'll never get the tire off to use the tube.

[@aarongraubart1162]

Yep, I had a massive puncture running tubeless within a week of buying new tubeless wheels. I ended up with sealant all over me, all over my bike, in the brakes, rear mech, all over the place. Had to call for a lift home. Spent hours cleaning the mess up. That was the last time I bothered with tubeless. What a horrible mess. Tubes are fine thanks very much.

[@vagosgouvalas4296]

I had a Nobby Nic on my bike, i tried ride my bike up some stiars and my tyre got cut right at the bead and had to buy a new tyre :( (the worse thing is that i had the tyre on for less than two weeks) btw love your vids And yes I am a mtber and watch a road bike chanel