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ASK RBA: ASK RC: CLINCHER TO TUBELESS CONVERSIONS
Richard Cunningham
January 27, 2010
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I am in some need of advice. I currently am running standard Campagnolo neutron wheels that are non tubeless, and saw some information in your magazine on how to convert these wheels to tubeless. My question is? Would this kit be compatible with all my wheel type, and have you tried the tubeless kits? If so, did you feel any difference while riding tubeless tires?
– Mark
Stan’s NoTubes makes a reliable tubeless conversion kit for road wheels that includes the special rim tape, removable valve stem, sealer, two Hutchinson Atom Tubeless tires and instructions. Here’s the link, and if you are reluctant to try it without seeing how it’s done, watch this video.
I have used this system to convert ordinary Ritchey road wheels to tubeless with success and in fact, the Stan’s conversion inflated with a standard floor pump, which is not always the case with dedicated tubeless rims. Remember that you can only use dedicated tubeless tires – even the best standard clinchers will blow off of the rims after time. At present, Specialized and Hutchinson make road tubeless tires. Kenda is soon to join the party.
To answer your second question: Yes, tubeless rolls noticeably better than tube-type clincher tires. Their supple ride and cornering performance is quite remarkable and you’ll ride flat free until you finally cut a sidewall – after which, you can simply remove the valve stem by hand and install a tube until you get home. Tubeless roll faster and feel better than tube types that weigh less than tubeless, you have to ride them to realize for yourself that tubeless is the future of road tires.
Contact Richard Cunningham for questions or comments, or just to talk bikes at: askRC@roadbikeaction.com
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