How Do Tubeless Mountain Bike Tires Work?

What is a Tubeless Tire?

Tubeless tires for mountain and road bikes are, as the name indicates, bike tires without the traditional inner tube. The most common type of tubeless mountain bike tire is the Mavic UST.

Fit on the rim

Mavic UST mountain tubeless tires are connected to a special wheel rim that has no spoke openings.

Inflation

The tire is inflated to about 60 psi (pounds of pressure per square inch). This can be adjusted downward for added traction.

Self-Sealing

As the tire is inflated, it seals itself onto the wheel rim for a tight fit that does not let air escape.

References

• Are Tubeless Tires Worth It?
• Going Tubeless -- What's the Deal?