Does bike tire sealant work?
Myth No. Tire sealant is for emergency use only But most people don’t realize that some tire sealants can also PREVENT flat tires in non-highway vehicles (such as bicycles, ATVs, trailers, tractors, riding lawn mowers and more) for up to 2 years! The tyre puncture solution may disrupt wheel balance. It can cause vibrations and affect the vehicle’s performance, especially at increased speeds. Sealants can block the valve’s stem, obstructing appropriate tyre inflation and potentially causing harm to the stem.Can clog the valve: If not used properly, tyre sealant can clog the valve. It can prevent the tyre from properly inflating, causing issues with tyre pressure and performance.Potential Damage Additionally, liquid tyre sealants are limited in terms of the size of holes or punctures they can fix. If not used correctly, sealants can also clog the valve stem or damage the tyre further, resulting in more flats.Using too little sealant can leave your tires vulnerable, while too much might cause unnecessary weight and inefficiency.
What are the disadvantages of tire sealant?
Some types can interfere with tyre sensors or create residue that must be cleaned out before it can be fixed correctly. Use the time you need to apply, and don’t hurry through the process. Even if only temporary, getting it correct works better for the sealant. Using too much sealant can cause your tire to feel sluggish and heavy. Excess sealant can also lead to sealant leaks around the tire bead or through the valve, which can affect the tire’s performance.Using too little sealant can leave your tires vulnerable, while too much might cause unnecessary weight and inefficiency.
How long does tubeless tyre sealant last?
The sealant should last an average of 2-6 months depending on factors such as: temperatures and humidity in your area, how often you ride, where you store your bike (cooler is better), tire casing thickness, number of punctures the sealant has already sealed that you never knew you had, etc. We recommend topping up the sealant levels every 2-3 months depending on weather conditions. If it is extremely hot or the wheels are stored in a warm place then you may need to top up the sealant more often. To top up the sealant, please refer to our tubeless tyre fitting guide here.As a general rule, we’d recommend topping up your tubeless sealant every three to six months. We also recommend fully removing the tyre for inspection once every 12 to 18 months. Please note due to the vast array of tubeless sealants available, these timelines might differ for your specific setup.
Do I need a new tyre after using sealant?
In any case, it is recommended that you have the tyre repaired or replaced at the earliest opportunity after the sealant has been applied and you do not continue to drive the vehicle other than to reach your nearest tyre fitting centre. Typically, dental sealants can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper care, though some high-quality sealants may remain effective for even longer periods.Tyre sealant is intended as a temporary fix, not a permanent repair. The longevity of a sealant repair depends on the size of the puncture, where it is, and the type of sealant used. In general, you can expect it to last around 50 to 100 miles, just enough to get you safely to a tyre garage.