Tyres and Tubeless

Tyre choice and pressure shape how your carbon wheels feel on the road or trail. Tubeless setups can improve comfort and seal small punctures while you ride, but reliable performance starts with compatible components and careful installation.

Check tyre and rim compatibility

Match the tyre’s bead-seat diameter to the rim, then check the wheel manufacturer’s permitted tyre widths and internal rim width requirements. For tubeless use, both the tyre and wheel must be approved for it.

Hookless rims need tyres explicitly approved for hookless use. A tubeless-ready label alone does not confirm every combination, and fitting an inner tube does not remove compatibility restrictions. Schwalbe’s hookless guidance explains these requirements and why pressure limits matter.

Choose width and pressure together

A tyre’s labelled width can differ from its inflated width, depending on the rim. Measure the mounted tyre and check clearance against your frame and fork manufacturer’s requirements, allowing for mud on gravel rides.

Wider tyres can provide more cushioning and support lower pressures. Choose width around your surfaces, clearance and approved rim combinations.

For pressure, use a manufacturer’s calculator or chart as a starting point, accounting for rider, bike and luggage weight, tyre width and terrain. Adjust gradually: excessive pressure can feel harsh, while insufficient pressure can cause vague handling, rim strikes or air loss during cornering. Stay within every applicable tyre and wheel limit, including limits that vary with tyre width. Maximum pressure is a ceiling, not a target.

Install tubeless tyres carefully

Follow the instructions for your particular wheel, tyre and sealant:

Inspect the rim and tyre beads for damage. Clean the rim bed and fit the specified tubeless tape where required.
Install a compatible valve with enough exposed stem for your pump.
Mount the tyre, keeping the beads in the rim’s central channel to ease fitting.
Add compatible sealant in the recommended quantity and inflate using the prescribed procedure.
Check that the bead indicator line sits evenly around both sides. Distribute the sealant and recheck pressure before riding.

Never exceed the permitted pressure to force a stubborn bead into place. Schwalbe’s tubeless installation guide provides further fitting advice.

Find common setup problems

Tyre will not inflate: Check bead positioning, valve airflow and tape condition. An approved tubeless booster may help establish the initial seal.
Persistent pressure loss: Use soapy water to locate bubbles, then inspect the relevant component.
Air escaping near the valve or spokes: Damaged tape can let air enter the rim cavity. Deflate and inspect rather than repeatedly tightening the valve.
Sealant no longer seals punctures: Check whether it has dried out and replenish according to its manufacturer’s instructions.

SRAM’s tubeless troubleshooting guide explains these checks. Check pressure before each ride and inspect sealant regularly, particularly during warm weather.