How to Install Tubeless Tape?

Installing tubeless tape correctly is a crucial step in converting bicycle wheels to a tubeless setup, creating an airtight seal against the rim bed.

Applying tubeless tape involves preparing the rim, carefully laying the tape under tension, ensuring sufficient overlap, and securing the end.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Tubeless Tape

Follow these steps to properly install tubeless tape on your bike rims:

Clean Thoroughly: Begin by completely cleaning the rim bed. Remove any old tape residue, dirt, oil, or grease. Use isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated degreaser, then dry the rim completely. A clean, dry surface is essential for the tape to adhere properly.
Inspect the Rim Bed: Ensure the rim bed is smooth and free from burrs or sharp edges that could damage the tape or tire.

Width: Select tubeless tape that is slightly wider (typically 1-5mm) than the internal width of your rim. This ensures the tape extends up the sidewall of the rim bed, creating a better seal.
Quality: Use high-quality, pressure-sensitive tubeless tape designed specifically for this purpose.

Starting Point: It's common practice to start applying the tape opposite the valve hole. This allows the tape overlap to occur away from the high-stress area of the valve stem.
Apply with Tension: While unrolling the tape, apply firm, consistent tension. Press the tape down firmly into the rim bed as you go, ensuring it conforms to the shape of the rim and eliminates any air bubbles or wrinkles.
Cover Spoke Holes: Make sure the tape completely covers all spoke holes firmly.
Overlap: Continue applying the tape around the rim for at least one full revolution, preferably overlapping by one or two spoke holes past your starting point. A generous overlap ensures a secure seal at the joint.

Cutting the Tape: Once you have sufficient overlap, carefully cut the tape using sharp scissors or a utility knife. Try to make a clean, straight cut.
Secure the End: As mentioned in the packaging, there might be a sticker included, such as a Muc-Off sticker. Use this sticker and place it over the cut where the tape ends meet. This helps to avoid any lifting of the tape edge. Press the entire length of the tape down firmly one more time, perhaps using a clean rag or your thumb, to ensure maximum adhesion to the rim.

Locate the Hole: Find the valve hole through the tape.
Puncture: Using a sharp, pointed object (like a small awl or the tip of a knife), carefully pierce the tape from the inside of the rim bed where the valve hole is. Start with a small hole and enlarge it slightly as needed to fit the valve stem snugly without tearing the tape excessively. Avoid making a large slash, as this can compromise the seal.

Applying tape at room temperature helps with adhesion.
For difficult rims, applying a small amount of heat (like from a hairdryer) after application can sometimes help the tape conform better.
Ensure the tape is centered in the rim bed before applying pressure.

Properly installed tubeless tape is the foundation of a reliable tubeless system, preventing air from escaping through the spoke holes.