TUBELESS RIDING: THE PROS AND CONS
On almost all CUBE road bikes, gravel bikes, and mountain bikes, you'll see "tubeless ready." But what does that actually mean? And more importantly: do you want to ride tubeless? In a tubeless setup, you ride without an inner tube. The outer tire connects directly to the rim and is made airtight with special tubeless fluid. That might sound technical, but in practice, it offers surprisingly many benefits. In this blog, we'll walk you through the pros and cons of riding tubeless.
Why more and more cyclists are riding tubeless
One of the biggest advantages of tubeless is comfort. Because you can ride with lower tire pressure, your bike feels calmer and smoother. On a road bike, you'll notice this especially on poor asphalt and cobblestones. On a mountain bike, it provides extra grip and control on loose surfaces and technical trails.
Additionally, you have less chance of punctures. The latex fluid often seals small holes directly, so sharp stones or thorns are less likely to cause a problem. Snakebites, also known as pinch flats, are also a thing of the past. This is a big advantage, especially on unpaved roads and trails. Tubeless tires are also often slightly lighter than a setup with inner tubes. This saves weight and rolling resistance, making your bike feel a bit faster and more efficient.
But there are also downsides
Tubeless does require a bit more attention than a regular inner tube. Installation can be tricky, and setting it up sometimes requires patience. The latex fluid also needs to be checked and refilled regularly.
Furthermore, it can be a messy job. Especially the first time, you'll likely end up with latex on your hands, floor, or bike (clothing). Tubeless components are also often slightly more expensive. Think of special tires, valves, rim tape, and sealant. On the other hand, you're less likely to be stranded on the road with a flat tire.
What do you need to ride tubeless?
Do you want to make your road bike or mountain bike tubeless? Then you'll definitely need:
- Tubeless ready tires
- Tubeless ready rims or wheelset (but this is often already included with your bike)
- Tubeless valves that fit your rim
- Tubeless rim tape
- Latex sealant
- A good floor pump or compressor
Many modern CUBE bikes are already tubeless ready. This means that the foundation is often already there, and you only need to add the right components.
Is tubeless worth it?
Do you ride many long distances on your road bike, or are you looking for more grip and control on your mountain bike? Then tubeless is definitely worth considering. If you find maintenance less enjoyable and primarily want to cycle quickly and simply? Then a classic inner tube might still be the best choice for you. Unsure which setup suits your bike? Visit one of the CUBE Stores. We are happy to help you with advice, assembly, and the right components for your rides.