I have a question, what is the best method to fix my tubeless road tyre if I have a puncture while on a trip? I am searching for a fast method just to get home and fix it later.
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3Are you using sealant in your tires? That can handle small punctures without you needing to even slow down.– Adam RiceApr 20, 2021 at 18:26
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One other method if you carry a tube is to use the tube, and for larger slices in the tire a dollar bill for a tire boot. That way the spare tube wont push through the tire.– Nate WApr 20, 2021 at 20:35
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1 Answer
The fastest way is to use tubeless plugs - bacon strips or worms. They are also used to plug holes in automobile and motorcycle tyres.
(source: Pro bike tool marketing pictures)
They are often sold in expensive bicycle-specific packaging, but the plugs itself can be bought much cheaper in bulk from sources directed to motorized vehicles.
The big advantage is that they are inserted from the outside, so you do not need to get the wheel off the bike. You just insert the strip (better covered by a vulcanizing glue, but follow the instructions) deep enough with a special fork and it remains stuck inside when you take the fork out. Before doing that you sometimes use another pick to prepare the hole.
The process is shown in this video:
If this is unsuccessful, try to insert another one, but you will likely have to deflate the tyre and insert an inner tube. Be careful for various old sharp objects stuck in the tyre. The sealant may have plugged their holes, but they can still puncture your inner tube.
answered Apr 20, 2021 at 15:45
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1The Stans Dart is another excellent plug, and works with any sealant. Apr 20, 2021 at 16:43
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1It's probably worth noting that a cut big enough to defeat multiple plugs would probably require a tire boot in addition to a plug - but it should also kill a traditional clincher. Apr 20, 2021 at 16:45