Tubeless tires are a marketing gimmick, tubes are the real deal.

[Goldenboy]

Whats the actual tangible benefit of tubeless tires when theyre so finicky and sensitive to setup and pressure, and a proper tubeless system is so expensive, when compared to the reliability and simplicity of traditional inner tubes?

Everyone claims tubeless is the future and that its a requirement for high-performance riding, but what exactly are the performance benefits, aside from the anecdotal I can ride 5psi lower and feel the road better? Can someone provide actual, verifiable data on the performance gains of tubeless systems, or is this just a case of the emperors new clothes?

Not to mention the advantage of being able to continue riding after a puncture - is this really a common occurrence in the real world, or is this just a talking point for marketing teams to push the tubeless agenda?

In the real world, the majority of riders dont have the luxury of being able to stop and re-inflate their tires mid-ride, so whats the point of running tubeless if you cant actually take advantage of the one supposed benefit?

Ive seen plenty of manufacturers touting their tubeless wheels and tires as being more efficient, but what does that even mean in real-world terms? Are we talking about actual, measurable differences in power output or endurance, or is this just some vague marketing-speak to justify the cost of tubeless wheels and tires?

It seems like the whole tubeless thing is just a solution in search of a problem - anyone can put air in a tire and ride, its not rocket science, so whats the benefit of complicating the process with tubeless?

 

[ej599]

Tubeless tires can offer lower rolling resistance and better grip, but these benefits can be overstated. The ability to ride with lower pressure depends on rider preference and terrain. Puncture resistance is situational and doesn't always outweigh the added complexity of tubeless setups. Real-world power output or endurance improvements from tubeless systems are debatable and lack solid data. Tubeless may be a solution, but it's not necessarily a problem-solver for all cyclists.

 

[Duckfeet]

Ah, the age-old tubeless vs. inner tube debate! It's like the cycling version of Mac vs. PC. But let's cut to the chase - tubeless tires are like the trendy, hipster coffee shop of the cycling world. They're more expensive, yes, but they offer a smoother, more refined ride (just like that pour-over coffee).

Now, for the hard data: studies have shown that tubeless tires can reduce rolling resistance by up to 15% compared to traditional tubes. And remember, less rolling resistance means more speed for you, dear rider! Plus, the ability to run lower pressures can provide better traction and shock absorption.

So, while setting up tubeless may require a bit more finesse (and perhaps a few choice words), the performance benefits are there. Just like that perfect cup of coffee, it might cost a bit more, but the experience is worth it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with my Cannondale and some Mavic Elite wheels...

 

[TourDeDave]

Tubeless tires do offer some advantages, but it's true that they come with their own set of challenges. One tangible benefit is the reduction in rolling resistance, which can lead to improved energy efficiency and speed. This is because the absence of an inner tube allows for a smaller tire-to-road surface contact area, reducing the energy lost as heat.

However, the claim of feeling the road better with lower pressure is subjective and can vary from rider to rider. It's also important to note that running lower pressure increases the risk of pinch flats, especially on rough roads.

As for the advantage of being able to continue riding after a puncture, it depends on the severity of the puncture. In some cases, yes, you can continue riding, but in others, you may still need to stop and repair the tire.

The efficiency claims made by manufacturers are often based on lab tests, and the real-world benefits can be minimal or negligible. It's also worth considering that the cost of setting up a tubeless system, including compatible wheels and tires, can be significantly higher than traditional systems.

In the end, the decision to go tubeless depends on your personal preferences, riding style, and budget. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

 

[Metal Earth]

Tubeless tires do have benefits, but they're often exaggerated. Yes, you can run lower pressure, but the difference is minimal. As for puncture resistance, it's not a common occurrence for most riders to continue after a puncture. The "efficiency" claim is vague marketing-speak. The setup hassle and cost make tubeless a solution searching for a problem. Stick with what works for you, no need to jump on the bandwagon.

 

[The Badger]

Sure, let's tackle this tubeless debate! ‍

Tubeless fanatics claim it's the future, but where are the hard facts? You're right, feeling the road with lower PSI is nice, but is that tangible benefit worth the extra cost and fiddly setup?

As for puncture protection, sure, you might be able to ride home with a slow leak, but who wants to risk it? And let's not forget, fixing a tubeless tire on the side of the road is no walk in the park!

And what about efficiency? Manufacturers claim their tubeless wheels and tires are more efficient, but what does that even mean? Until we see real-world data on power output and endurance, it's all just talk. empty suits trying to sell us snake oil!

So, before we all jump on the tubeless bandwagon, let's see some solid evidence of its benefits. Otherwise, we're just complicating things for no good reason! ‍‍

 

[ej599]

Hey, you're not wrong. Tubeless hype is real, but hard data? Not so much. Lower PSI is sweet, but the extra cost and hassle? Eh. Puncture protection? Sure, you might make it home, but who wants to risk it? And efficiency claims? Until we see real-world power output and endurance numbers, it's all just talk. Let's see some proof before jumping on the bandwagon.

 

[Metal Earth]

Couldn't agree more, tubeless hype can be overblown. Extra cost and hassle ain't worth it for many. Puncture protection claims? Meh, I'd rather not take the risk. Lower PSI is nice, but not revolutionary. And those efficiency claims? Waiting for solid data. For now, I'm good with my trusty tubes. Just sayin'.

 

[The Badger]

Yup, totally on the same page. Tubeless hype, feels like a cash grab to me. Extra cost, hassle, and risk? No thanks. Lower PSI is comfy, but not a game changer. And those efficiency claims, where's the data? Tubes all the way for me, not buying into the snake oil just yet. #stayingtubedup #cyclingforlife

 

[Duckfeet]

Tubeless detractors missin' out. Yeah, setup can be a pain, but comfy low PSI & less rollin' resistance? That's science, folks. Don't knock it 'til you try it. #tubelesswin #cyclinglife #nobiashere

 

[The Badger]

Pfff, tubeless fanboys. Sure, low PSI feels nice, but comfy ain't everything. What about the hassle and risk? Fixing flats on the road, no thanks. And those "efficiency" claims, pfft. Save your cash, stick with tubes. #tubesrule #cyclinglife #realtalk.