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How to Install UST Tubeless Tires

Installing a tubeless tire is a lot like installing a regular tire (like you’ve probably read about in the “how to fix a flat tire” article. However, there are a few key differences that you need to keep in mind.

The first thing you should know is that tubeless tires should be installed without the use of tire levers. Using tire levers could damage the tire’s bead just enough to make it so the tire will not hold air. So don’t use tire levers unless it is absolutely necessary!

But let’s get started…

You will need:

  • UST rim and tire
  • Air compressor (very nice, but not 100% necessary)
  • Soapy water
  • Tire levers (maybe)

1. Mount one side.

Making sure the tire is facing the correct direction (according to the rotation direction arrow,) and the tire’s logo is lined up with the valve stem, mount the first side of the tire.

All you have to do is slide one side of the tire over the rim and it should pop on.

2. Mount second side.

Starting at the point opposite the valve stem, it’s time to mount the second side of the tire. (Note: With conventional tires, you should start at the valve stem, but with tubeless systems, start opposite the valve stem.)

This will probably be pretty hard, so you can lubricate the rim and tire bead with soapy water to decrease the friction and make the process slightly easier.

Try all your tire mounting skills, and give your hands a good workout. But if you exhaust yourself, it’s OK to use tire levers as a last resort. Just be very careful, and use the widest and softest tire levers you have.

3. Inflate.

Now you want to blast the tire with air to seat the bead. This step creates the airtight seal.

Ideally you will use an air compressor to quickly fill the tire to 40 psi. The bead should lock in place.

Then you deflate the tire and check to make sure the bead is still locked in place. (If not, you’ll notice the bead isn’t connected to the rim, and you should repeat this step.)

4. Inflate again.

Now you are ready to inflate the tire again, but this time you only have to inflate to your desired pressure – probably 20-35 psi.