TUBELESS ADVANTAGE: WHY ADOPT IT ON A ROAD BIKE?
Introduction
The choice of tires plays an essential role in the performance and comfort of a road bike. In recent years, tubeless technology has become an increasingly popular alternative to clincher tires. But what are the advantages of tubeless tires for road cyclists? In this article, we detail the major benefits of tubeless tires in terms of performance, comfort and safety.
1. A significant reduction in rolling resistance
The main reason why many cyclists opt for tubeless tires is to reduce rolling resistance. Unlike a conventional tubed tire, a tubeless tire eliminates the friction between the tube and the tire, allowing :
Key figures
According to tests carried out by Bicycle Rolling Resistance, a tubeless tire has the advantage of offering a 10% to 15% reduction in rolling resistance compared with an inner-tube tire.
Find out more about rolling resistance in this detailed analysis on the Schwalbe website.
2. Greater comfort thanks to lower pressure
Tubeless tires allow you to run at lower pressures without the risk of pinching, because the absence of an inner tube eliminates the risk of the tire pinching the rim. This characteristic translates into :
Practical examples
A cyclist using tubeless tires can ride with a pressure of 5.1 bar instead of 5.5 bar, while maintaining good rolling efficiency.
3. Reduced risk of punctures
The anti-puncture fluid contained in tubeless tires automatically seals small punctures, reducing the risk of stopping while riding.
Key benefits
According to a Schwalbe study, tubeless tires reduce punctures by 60% compared with conventional tires.
4. Potential weight gain
The absence of inner tubes means weight savings of around 50 to 70 grams per wheel. A lighter bike means better handling and more efficient climbing.
Comparison
5. Better grip and safety
Tubeless tires offer increased grip thanks to reduced pressure and better deformation of the tire on the road. This feature allows :
Conclusion: why go tubeless?
Opting for tubeless tires on a road bike offers numerous advantages in terms of performance, comfort and safety. Reduced rolling resistance, improved comfort thanks to lower pressure, reduced risk of punctures and weight savings are all arguments in favor of this technology.
If you’re looking to optimize your road cycling experience, tubeless is a modern and effective solution. Check out our range of tubeless-compatible wheels on GOAT Wheels to take full advantage of its benefits!