Hi fella,,
I looked at possibly running tubeless systems some time ago,, I decided after doing a little research into them that the tubeless system did not really offer any major advantages for me.
Some of the issues that put me off :
Installation of a tubeless tyre onto the rim, apparently can be a right nightmare without the use of a high pressure pump i.e compressor..., this is due to the initial pressures required to seat the tyre bead correctly onto the rim to form the airtight seal that is required..
The rim and the tyre need to be clean and dirt free to ensure an airtight seal, when fitting,... from new, this may not be a problem,,however overtime I could see this possibly becoming an issue with a ATB wheelset.
Most of the tubeless XC tyres I looked at, were actually quite a bit heavier, more expensive and offered fewer choices of tread pattern/widths etc , than there tubed rivals.. also the fact that a sealant is recommended will also increase the 'rotational' weight of the system.., (I will add to this, that a couple of friends ran tubeless systems and they did say, that nearly ever time they had a flat, the sealant failed to seal the puncture..)
If the rims get damaged due to flatting, blowouts etc ,,.. which is more of a possibility when running at lower pressures , .will mean the chances of that airtight seal could be another issue ,, possibly requiring a new rim/wheel rebuild.
The need to continue carrying inner tubes and pump...
The fact that I've never really had major issues with traction (the main reason for tubeless from what I understand) except in snow and real muddy conditions, so I dont need to run a tyre at 20lbs.. which will in turn increase drag..
I'm stuck in me ways and like the 'retroness' of using inner tubes..
Obviously their are going to be people who disagree with my views and comments.
Personally, I just dont see the so called 'advantages' being worth while ,over a traditional tubed wheelset for me currently..
I'd be interested to hear some views of people running tubeless systems..
But certainly for now... I'll stick with tubes...
I noticed your comment whilst reading through the thread.. :
I do recall sithlord and tintin getting some light weight tubes a while ago. I can't remember what though.
That'll be the sub 90gram Foss innertubes then..
I've had these a while now, and I'd like to report that I am very impressed with them.,, not only from the reduction in rotational weight , but also the fact that they have not punctured and have also retained most of there original inflated pressure now for over a month...
Highly recommended..
