At WTB, we’re big fans of going tubeless. Why? Because —it’s a better way to ride. Whether you’re a gravel grinder, a mountain shredder, or a weekend adventurer, tubeless tires offer significant advantages that enhance performance, reduce hassle, and make every mile more enjoyable. Here’s why it might be time to ditch the tube and go tubeless.
1. Fewer Flats = More Riding
With a tubeless setup, your tires are filled with sealant that automatically plugs small punctures. Forget about pinching a tube on sharp rocks or dealing with goathead thorns ruining your ride. Flats become a rare inconvenience, not an inevitable frustration. For anyone who loves uninterrupted adventure, this alone is worth the switch.
2. Lower Tire Pressure, Better Traction
One of the biggest advantages of tubeless tires is the ability to run lower tire pressures without worrying about pinch flats. Lower pressure increases your tire’s contact with the ground, improving traction and control. Whether you’re cornering on loose gravel, climbing rocky trails, or navigating slick roots, tubeless tires give you the grip you need to stay confident.
3. Smoother, More Comfortable Rides
Lower tire pressures don’t just boost traction—they also improve comfort. By allowing your tires to absorb more of the bumps and vibrations from rough terrain, tubeless setups make for a smoother ride. This is a game-changer for long gravel races, multi-day bikepacking trips, or simply making your favorite trails feel a bit more forgiving.
4. Lightweight Performance
Ditching the inner tube reduces rotational weight, which makes your bike more efficient and responsive. Less weight means easier climbing, faster acceleration, and improved handling—key benefits for riders looking to maximize performance.
5. No More Pinch Flats
Pinch flats occur when the tube gets pinched between the tire and rim during impacts, often when running lower pressures. With no inner tube to pinch, tubeless eliminates this issue entirely. That means you can confidently tackle rough terrain or drop tire pressure for traction without the risk of a flat.
6. Versatility Across Terrains
Tubeless tires aren’t just for mountain bikers. Gravel riders, bikepackers, and even some road cyclists can benefit from the added reliability, performance, and comfort of tubeless setups. Whether you’re shredding singletrack, tackling endless gravel, or loading up for a multi-day adventure, tubeless tires adapt to your riding style and terrain.
7. Long-Term Cost Savings
While the initial setup for tubeless may cost more than traditional tubes, it’s a smart investment in the long run. Tubeless tires are more durable and puncture-resistant, meaning fewer replacements and less time spent fixing flats. Plus, the sealant plugs small punctures before you even notice them, reducing downtime and frustration.
Is Tubeless Right for You?
Going tubeless is ideal if you:
• Frequently ride rough or unpredictable terrain (think rocks, roots, and gravel).
• Want better traction and control, especially in corners and climbs.
• Value smoother, more comfortable rides on long outings.
• Prefer less maintenance and fewer interruptions from flats.
However, if you stick to smooth pavement or prefer a simple, low-maintenance setup, traditional tubes or WTB NanoAir Tubes might still work for you.
What You Need for a Tubeless Setup
To get started with tubeless, you’ll need:
2. Tubeless-ready rims (Like WTB's TCS Tubeless Rims) or a conversion kit for your existing tubeless ready wheels.
4. A reliable floor pump or compressor for seating the tire bead.
5. Rocket Tool incase you get a hole in your tire that the sealant can't fix
Why WTB TCS Tubeless?
At WTB, our TCS (Tubeless Compatible System) makes going tubeless easier and more reliable than ever. Our TCS tires and rims are designed to create a perfect seal, and our WTB sealant works hard to keep you rolling through any terrain. With a wide range of tire options for gravel, trail, and adventure, we’ve got you covered for every type of ride.
Final Thoughts
Going tubeless is more than a trend—it’s a better way to ride. From fewer flats to improved traction, comfort, and performance, the benefits of tubeless tires are hard to ignore. If you’re ready to elevate your cycling experience, it’s time to make the switch.