Tubeless Tires: Can You Put an Inner Tube In, and Should You?

Can you put an inner tube in a tubeless tire?

Yes, it is generally possible to put an inner tube into a tubeless tire, typically as a temporary repair for a flat or a deliberate conversion, but this practice comes with specific technical considerations and potential performance drawbacks that riders should thoroughly understand.

The Direct Answer: Yes, But With Caveats

The fundamental answer is yes, you can install an inner tube into a tubeless tire. This is a common practice for cyclists experiencing a puncture that tubeless sealant cannot seal, or for those who wish to convert a tubeless setup back to a tube-based system. While mechanically feasible, it's crucial to recognize that tubeless tires and rims are designed for a different sealing mechanism, and introducing an inner tube can alter the system's dynamics and performance characteristics.

Why Consider This Conversion or Repair?

Riders typically opt to put an inner tube in a tubeless tire for several reasons:

• Emergency Flat Repair: The most common scenario. If a large puncture or sidewall cut renders the tubeless sealant ineffective, an inner tube can provide a quick, trailside repair to get you home.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Converting an existing tubeless tire to a tube setup can be cheaper than purchasing new tube-compatible tires if you already own tubeless ones.
• Simplicity and Familiarity: Some riders prefer the straightforward nature of tubes, avoiding the mess and maintenance of tubeless sealant.
• Temporary Solution: As a stop-gap measure while waiting for a new tubeless tire or a more permanent repair.

Technical Considerations for a Successful Conversion

Successfully installing an inner tube into a tubeless tire requires attention to detail:

• Tire and Rim Compatibility:
  • Tubeless Ready (TR) Tires: These tires are designed with a tighter bead to create an airtight seal with tubeless rims. This tight fit can make tube installation more challenging but generally ensures the tire stays securely on the rim with a tube.
  • Tubeless Rims: Tubeless rims often lack the pronounced hook bead found on traditional tube-type rims, relying instead on the tire's tight bead and sealant for retention. While generally safe for tubes, ensure the rim bed is smooth and free of sharp edges.
• Valve Stem:
  • Tubeless Valve Removal: If converting from tubeless, the tubeless valve stem must be removed.
  • Inner Tube Valve: The inner tube will have its own valve (Presta or Schrader), which will pass through the valve hole in the rim.
• Rim Tape:
  • Tubeless Rim Tape: High-quality tubeless rim tape is designed to seal the spoke holes to make the rim airtight. When using a tube, this tape still serves a crucial purpose: protecting the inner tube from abrasion by the spoke nipples and sharp edges within the rim bed. It is generally advisable to leave it in place or ensure a smooth, durable rim strip is used.
• Sealant Residue: If the tire previously had sealant, clean out any dried or liquid residue from the inside of the tire. While some residue won't harm the tube, excessive amounts can cause uneven pressure distribution or adhesion.

Potential Drawbacks and Performance Implications

While feasible, using an inner tube in a tubeless tire is not without its disadvantages:

• Increased Risk of Pinch Flats: Tubeless tires often have thinner, more supple sidewalls optimized for tubeless pressures and the sealant's puncture protection. When a tube is installed, these thinner sidewalls can be more susceptible to pinch flats (snake bites) if the tire is under-inflated or hits an obstacle sharply, as the tube can be pinched between the rim and the obstacle.
• Weight Penalty: An inner tube adds rotational weight to the wheel, which can noticeably impact acceleration and climbing performance, especially for performance-oriented riders.
• Rolling Resistance: The friction between the inner tube and the inside of the tubeless tire casing can slightly increase rolling resistance compared to a well-maintained tubeless setup.
• Heat Dissipation: Tubeless systems, particularly those with sealant, can sometimes dissipate heat more effectively. In high-speed, long-descent scenarios, a tube might experience higher temperatures, though this is less common for typical cycling.
• Tire Fit and Installation Difficulty: The tighter bead of a tubeless-ready tire can make installing and removing an inner tube more challenging than with a standard tube-type tire.

Best Practices for Installing a Tube in a Tubeless Tire

If you decide to install an inner tube:

• Clean the Tire: Ensure the inside of the tire casing is clean and free of debris, sealant residue, or sharp objects that could puncture the tube.
• Inspect the Tire: Thoroughly check the tire for any damage (cuts, gashes) that could compromise its structural integrity or lead to a tube failure.
• Use the Correct Tube Size: Match the inner tube's diameter and width range to your tire's specifications. A tube that is too small will stretch excessively and be prone to punctures; one that is too large will wrinkle and also risk pinching.
• Pre-inflate the Tube: Lightly inflate the inner tube before installation. This gives it shape, making it easier to position correctly and reducing the risk of pinching it between the tire bead and the rim.
• Proper Installation Technique: Carefully work the tire bead onto the rim, ensuring the tube is not pinched anywhere, especially around the valve stem.
• Check and Inflate: Inflate the tire slowly, checking that the beads are seated evenly on both sides of the rim.

When is it Not Advisable?

While generally possible, there are situations where installing an inner tube in a tubeless tire is not recommended:

• Severely Damaged Tubeless Tire: If the tubeless tire has a large cut in the sidewall or tread that compromises its structural integrity, a tube will not make it safe to ride. The tire itself needs replacement.
• Long-Term Performance Solution: For serious cyclists or those seeking optimal performance, using a tube in a tubeless tire should be considered a temporary fix rather than a permanent solution.
• Specific High-Performance Applications: In competitive racing or aggressive riding where every gram and rolling resistance factor counts, the drawbacks of a tube in a tubeless tire can be significant.

Alternatives to Consider

Before resorting to a tube in a tubeless tire, explore these alternatives:

• Tubeless Repair Kits: For smaller punctures, tubeless plugs (like 'bacon strips') are highly effective at sealing holes that sealant alone cannot handle, often without removing the wheel.
• Dedicated Tube-Type Tires: If you prefer tubes, consider purchasing tires specifically designed for tube use, as they are optimized for that setup.
• New Tubeless Tire: If your tubeless tire is significantly damaged, replacing it with another tubeless-ready tire is often the safest and most performance-oriented solution.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, the ability to put an inner tube in a tubeless tire offers a valuable option for emergency repairs and specific conversions. However, it's a decision that requires an understanding of the mechanical implications and potential performance trade-offs. For optimal performance, puncture protection, and ride quality, a properly maintained tubeless system remains superior when the tire and rim are designed for it. When an inner tube becomes necessary, approach the installation with care and awareness of its temporary or compromise nature.