How to Set Up Tubeless MTB Tyres Properly

How to Set Up Tubeless MTB Tyres Properly

No burps. No clogs. No midnight retaping. Just clean installs that hold air and stay sealed — first time.

If you've ever struggled with a tubeless MTB tyre setup, you know the drill. Sealant everywhere, swearing at the tyre bead and wondering why this was supposed to be “better.”

The truth is, tubeless systems work incredibly well when they’re installed properly.

Get the key steps dialled and your tubeless MTB tyres will seal quickly, hold pressure and stay reliable on the trail.

Here’s how to finally get it dialled.

Why Tubeless Tyres Are Better for MTB

Traditional inner tubes work, but they come with limitations.

Tubeless systems allow riders to run lower tyre pressures, which improves grip, comfort and control on rough trails.

The main advantages include:

• improved traction on loose terrain
• reduced risk of pinch flats
• smoother ride over rocks and roots
• automatic sealing of small punctures

For aggressive trail riding, a properly installed tubeless MTB tyre setup is far more reliable than running tubes.

What You Need for a Tubeless Setup

Before starting, make sure you have the correct components.

A proper tubeless system includes:

• tubeless compatible rims
• tubeless rim tape
• tubeless valves
• sealant
• tubeless ready tyres

Many riders also add tyre inserts for additional rim protection and tyre stability.

When installed correctly, inserts can protect your rims from hard impacts and allow riders to push harder through rough terrain.

Step 1: Prepare the Rim

Start by making sure the rim bed is completely clean. While you are cleaning the rim, keep an eye out for dings and dents that might stop your tyre from mounting correctly.

Remove any old rim tape, dirt or sealant residue. The rim surface must be smooth for the tape to seal properly.

Once the rim is clean, apply tubeless rim tape tightly across the rim bed.

Good tape installation is critical. Any small gaps can allow air to escape.

Step 2: Install the Tubeless Valve

After taping the rim, install the tubeless valve through the valve hole.

Make sure the rubber base sits firmly against the rim tape to create an airtight seal.

High-flow valves make tyre inflation easier and help sealant move freely inside the tyre.

Step 3: Mount the Tyre

Install one side of the tyre onto the rim first.

Before seating the second bead, add the correct amount of tubeless sealant inside the tyre. Be sure to use a high-quality, latex-free sealant.

Our tubeless tyre sealant guide provides an in-depth understanding of why using the right sealant is critical for your tubeless set up.

Most mountain bike tyres require around 80–120ml of sealant, depending on tyre size.

Once the sealant is inside, mount the second bead of the tyre.

Step 4: Inflate the Tyre

To seat the tyre bead, inflate the tyre quickly so the bead pops into place along the rim edge.

You may hear several loud pops as the tyre seats properly.

A floor pump works for many setups, but some tyres may require a compressor or tubeless inflator to deliver a rapid burst of air.

Step 5: Seal the System

Once the tyre is inflated, spin and shake the wheel so the sealant coats the entire inside of the tyre.

This helps seal any microscopic gaps between the tyre bead and rim.

Leave the wheel upright for several minutes on each side to allow the sealant to fully seal the system.

Adding Tyre Inserts

Many aggressive riders install tubeless tyre inserts during the setup process.

Inserts sit inside the tyre and provide additional protection for the rim during hard impacts.

They also help stabilise the tyre at low pressures, improving control when cornering hard through rough terrain.

For riders pushing their bikes on rocky trails, inserts can dramatically reduce the risk of rim damage.

If you haven't considered using tyre inserts or don't know why you would, our tubeless tyre insert guide is an easy read that covers everything you need to know.

Common Tubeless Setup Problems

Most tubeless problems come down to small installation mistakes.

Tyre Won’t Seal

Usually caused by:

• poor rim tape installation
• damaged tyre beads
• Damaged rims
• insufficient sealant

Air Leaks Around the Valve

This usually means the valve base is not seated tightly against the rim tape.

Reinstalling the valve and tightening the lock ring often solves the issue.

Tyre Burping on the Trail

Burping occurs when the tyre briefly loses air during hard cornering.

This can be caused by:

• tyre pressure being too low
• rim width not supporting the tyre properly

Wider rims provide better tyre support and reduce the risk of burping when running low pressures.

Final Thoughts

A properly installed tubeless MTB setup makes your bike faster, more reliable and far more capable on rough trails.

Lower pressures improve traction, sealant protects against punctures and inserts can help prevent rim damage during hard riding.

Take the time to install your tubeless system correctly and it will reward you with fewer flats and better performance on the trail.

Once dialled, it’s one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make to your mountain bike.