10 Top CO2 Tire Inflators & Boosters for Tubeless Setups
So, you’ve embraced the tubeless life – no more pinch flats, better traction, and a smoother ride. But what happens when you get a puncture or, worse, need to seat a stubborn tubeless tire on the rim? That’s where a reliable inflation solution comes in handy. While a standard pump might do for minor top-ups, seating a tubeless bead or getting back on the trail quickly often calls for something more powerful.
That’s where the best CO2 tire inflator for tubeless setups, or a dedicated tubeless tire booster, really shines. These gadgets deliver a rapid, high-pressure blast of air that’s essential for “popping” the tire bead into place. Whether you’re a mountain biker tackling gnarly trails, a road cyclist chasing KOMs, or just a weekend warrior, having the right tool can save you a lot of frustration and get you back riding in no time.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to 10 top-notch options, covering both compact CO2 inflators and robust air boosters. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Your Tubeless Inflation Needs
Before we jump into the reviews, it’s worth noting the distinction:
* CO2 Inflators: These are compact, typically handheld devices that use disposable CO2 cartridges to deliver a quick burst of air. They’re fantastic for emergency trailside repairs and offer super-fast inflation.
* Tubeless Tire Boosters/Airshots: These are small, portable air tanks that you pre-charge with a regular floor pump. They then release a powerful blast of air, ideal for seating new tubeless tires at home or on the go without a bulky air compressor. While they don’t use CO2, they solve a very similar problem for tubeless users, making them a worthy inclusion.
Our Top 10 Picks for Tubeless Tire Inflation
Let’s explore the options that will keep your tubeless setup running smoothly.
1. Airshot Tubeless Tire Inflator 1.15l
The Airshot Tubeless Tire Inflator is a game-changer for anyone dealing with stubborn tubeless tires. Instead of relying on CO2 cartridges or a cumbersome air compressor, this clever device uses your existing floor pump to pre-charge a high-volume canister. When you’re ready, it delivers an instant, powerful blast of air, ensuring your tire bead snaps securely into place with that satisfying “POP!” It’s a reusable, eco-friendly solution perfect for your home workshop or car trunk.
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Key Features:
- COMPATIBLE with all tire sizes: 26″, 27.5″, 27.5+”, 29″, “29+”, MTB, road, cyclocross and fat bikes.
- Holds enough air to seat your tires on the rims every time you need to change your tubeless tire or replace the tubeless tire sealant.
- SIMPLE and EFFICIENT, designed to work with your existing bicycle floor pump and eliminate waste and misuse of CO2 cartridges.
- SAFE and SECURE, with a tested pressure up to 160psi (11atm) and Presta valve compatible.
- PORTABILITY and small size, easily stored or carried in your trunk.
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Pros:
- Reusable, saving money and reducing waste compared to CO2 cartridges.
- Environmentally friendly.
- Reliable and powerful blast for consistent bead seating.
- Compatible with all tubeless tire sizes.
- Works with your existing floor pump.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate floor pump to charge.
- Larger than a compact CO2 inflator.
- Not suitable for instant, high-pressure trailside top-ups.
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User Impressions: Cyclists rave about the Airshot’s ability to simplify tubeless tire installation, turning a frustrating task into a breeze. Many appreciate its sturdy build and the fact that they don’t have to keep buying CO2. It’s often described as a “must-have” for any tubeless user.
2. BriskMore Black CO2 Inflator Presta and Schrader Valve…
When speed and portability are paramount, the BriskMore Black CO2 Inflator steps up to the plate. This sleek, durable unit is designed for rapid inflation on the go, making it an excellent choice for mid-ride flats. Its dual-valve compatibility means you don’t need to fuss with adapters, and the included foam sleeve ensures your fingers stay warm when handling the super-cold CO2 cartridge. If you’re looking for the best CO2 tire inflator for tubeless emergencies, this one is definitely a contender.
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Key Features:
- Classic, Durable, Compact and Lightweight design.
- Insulated Rubber foam sleeve (for 16g cartridges only) included to prevent frozen fingers.
- Fits both Presta & Schrader valves.
- Washers seal threaded connection ensuring NO leakage.
- Inflator head designed for all threaded size UNF3/8 CO2 cartridges (12/16/20/25g). CO2 cartridges NOT included.
- Made from strong and durable aluminium alloy and alloy steel.
- Reliable and simple control valve for precise adjustment, easy to use.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast inflation for quick repairs.
- Compact and lightweight, easy to carry.
- Compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves.
- Durable construction from aluminum alloy.
- Insulated sleeve protects hands from cold.
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Cons:
- CO2 cartridges are single-use and need to be purchased separately.
- Each cartridge provides a limited amount of air.
- Can get very cold during use (even with sleeve).
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User Impressions: Users love how quickly this inflator gets them back on the road or trail. Its robust build quality and ease of use are frequently praised, with many highlighting the effective foam sleeve as a crucial detail. It’s considered a reliable emergency tool.
3. Tubeless Tire Inflator 1.1L- Tubeless Bike Pump Max160 Psi…
This 1.1L Tubeless Tire Inflator is another excellent solution for reliably seating tubeless tires without the need for CO2 or an air compressor. It operates on the same principle as the Airshot, allowing you to charge it with a standard floor pump and then unleash a powerful, even blast of air. Its wide compatibility and user-friendly design make it a versatile tool for any cyclist looking to maintain their tubeless setup at home or on the go.
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Key Features:
- QUICK & EASY TIRE INFLATION – Inflates tubeless tires in seconds by connecting to a conventional floor pump.
- ATTACH THE INFLATOR – Connects to the tire’s valve stem; can screw directly into valve stem if core is removed.
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY – Works with all tire sizes (26″, 27.5″, 27.5+”, 29″, 29+”, road, cyclocross, fat bikes).
- SIMPLE, SAFE & EFFECTIVE – Works with your existing floor pump, supports pressures up to 160 PSI (11 bar), Presta valve compatible.
- PORTABLE & CONVENIENT – Compact and lightweight, fits easily in your trunk or workshop.
- THE PERFECT GIFT FOR CYCLISTS – User-friendly solution for seating tubeless tires, works with any standard bike pump.
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Pros:
- Reusable and eco-friendly alternative to CO2.
- Delivers a strong, consistent air blast for bead seating.
- Highly compatible with various bike and tire types.
- Eliminates the need for a bulky air compressor.
- Portable and convenient for home or travel.
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Cons:
- Requires a floor pump for charging.
- Larger than a typical CO2 inflator.
- Not designed for rapid pressure adjustments on the fly.
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User Impressions: Riders appreciate its effectiveness in seating even the most stubborn tubeless tires. The convenience of not needing a compressor and its wide compatibility are frequently highlighted. It’s seen as a smart investment for regular tubeless maintenance.
4. CXWXC CO2 Inflator with 4 x 16g CO2 Cartridges &…
The CXWXC CO2 Inflator is part of a comprehensive bike tire repair tool set, making it a fantastic all-in-one solution for unexpected flats. Not only do you get a quality CO2 inflator, but also cartridges, a tubeless repair kit, and a valve stem core removal tool. This setup is designed to get you back riding in minutes, whether you’re patching a hole or simply reinflating. It’s a prime example of a complete package for those seeking the best CO2 tire inflator for tubeless emergencies.
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Key Features:
- Bike Tire Repair Tool Set: CO2 Inflator, 4 x 16g CO2 Cartridges, Tubeless tire repair kit, Valve stem core removal tool.
- Made from superior quality CNC machined aluminum alloy.
- Compact and Lightweight: Works with threaded or unthreaded 16g Cartridges, fits in saddle pouch or mounts onto bike frame (bracket included).
- Designed to work with threaded Presta & Schrader tire valve types, no adapters needed.
- Inflator head designed for any size of threaded CO2 cartridges.
- Insulate sleeve included to protect hands from cold cartridges.
- 16-gram cartridge inflates a road tire to 100 psi and an MTB tire to approx. 40psi.
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Pros:
- Comprehensive kit for tubeless tire repair and inflation.
- Fast and effective for trailside emergencies.
- Compact and lightweight design, highly portable.
- Dual Presta/Schrader valve compatibility.
- Includes an insulated sleeve for safe handling.
- Frame mount bracket adds convenience.
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Cons:
- CO2 cartridges are single-use.
- Cartridges become extremely cold during use, requiring caution.
- Requires proper disposal of empty cartridges.
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User Impressions: Cyclists appreciate the completeness of this kit, finding it incredibly useful for both fixing punctures and quickly reinflating. The quality of the CNC-machined components and the ease of use are frequently mentioned positive points. It’s seen as a reliable emergency companion.
5. Granite Suture Aero Tire Plug Kit with Integrated CO2…
For those who prioritize integration and minimalism, the Granite Suture Aero Tire Plug Kit is a brilliant piece of engineering. This tool combines a tubeless tire plug kit with an integrated CO2 inflator, all within a sleek, portable design. It’s a clever solution for quick repairs and immediate reinflation, meaning you spend less time fumbling for multiple tools and more time riding. The inclusion of a valve core remover adds even more functionality to this already versatile gadget.
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Key Features:
- Inflate in Seconds: Designed with a built-in CO2 inflator works with Presta valve.
- Easy Fixes: Conveniently stored in the inflator, the fork ensures smooth tire plug application.
- Versatile Function: Equipped with a Presta valve core remover at the end of the tool housing.
- Dual-Sized Strips: Comes with 10 tire plugs—5 pieces of 1.5mm and 5 pieces of 3.5mm.
- Portable Design: Lightweight CNC-machined alloy construction.
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Pros:
- Integrated design combines repair and inflation, reducing clutter.
- Quick and efficient for both plugging punctures and reinflating.
- Includes multiple plug sizes for various punctures.
- Features a handy Presta valve core remover.
- Compact and lightweight CNC-machined alloy construction.
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Cons:
- Only compatible with Presta valves.
- CO2 cartridges must be purchased separately.
- Limited CO2 capacity if only using smaller cartridges within the integrated design.
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User Impressions: Riders love the ingenious all-in-one design, making it incredibly convenient for trailside repairs. The quality construction and the effectiveness of both the plug tool and the inflator earn high praise. It’s considered a must-have for tubeless mountain bikers.
6. Ctrepower Tubeless Bike Tire Inflator – 1.3L Tubeless Bike…
The Ctrepower Tubeless Bike Tire Inflator is a premium choice for effortlessly seating tubeless tires, designed with durability and user-friendliness in mind. This 1.3L powerhouse acts as a portable air compressor alternative, allowing you to charge its robust aluminum tank with a floor pump. It then unleashes a massive air blast, ensuring even the most stubborn tire beads lock firmly onto the rim. Its universal valve compatibility and tough build make it ideal for both the workshop and race day.
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Key Features:
- INSTANT TUBELESS TIRE SEATING: Effortlessly seats MTB, Gravel, and Road Bike tubeless tires.
- Charge tank to 160 PSI (120 PSI minimum required), connect, and release via quick quarter-turn valve.
- PREMIUM DURABLE & PORTABLE DESIGN: Robust CNC-machined aluminum body and flexible 17.7-inch inner braided hose.
- TRUE UNIVERSAL VALVE COMPATIBILITY (Presta & Schrader): Innovative convertible nozzle – no loose adapters or tools required.
- ULTRA-COMPACT AIR COMPRESSOR ALTERNATIVE: Measures just 13.78″ long, weighing 1.07 lbs.
- PRO TIP FOR FLAWLESS SEALS: Charge to a minimum of 120 PSI for best results (max 200 PSI).
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Pros:
- Powerful and consistent air blast for reliable bead seating.
- Highly durable CNC-machined aluminum construction.
- Universal valve compatibility (Presta & Schrader) without adapters.
- Portable and relatively compact for a booster of its capacity.
- Reusable, eliminating the need for disposable cartridges.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate floor pump to pre-charge.
- Larger than CO2 inflators, might not fit in a small saddle bag.
- Initial cost is higher than a basic CO2 inflator.
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User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed with the Ctrepower’s robust build and its ability to seat tires with ease. The universal valve compatibility is a significant plus, and its portability for a booster is often highlighted. It’s considered a high-quality, long-lasting investment.
7. Skwiki PRE-Set Pressure Bicycle CO2 Inflator/Deflator,…
The Skwiki PRE-Set Pressure Bicycle CO2 Inflator/Deflator offers a unique level of control for CO2 inflation. Unlike standard CO2 inflators that simply dump air, this smart device allows you to pre-set your desired PSI. This means you can inflate your tubeless tire precisely to your preferred pressure without fear of over-inflation or burst. It even has a deflator function, making it an incredibly versatile and precise tool for any Presta valve-equipped bike.
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Key Features:
- INFLATE YOUR TIRES UPON DESIRED PSI – Inflate up to your Pre-set PSI Value.
- DEFLATE YOUR TIRES UPON DESIRED PSI – Increase track control by DEFLATING tires to your Pre-set PSI Value.
- NO MORE FEAR OF OVER-INFLATION OR BURST.
- COMPATIBILITY – Compatible with Presta valves.
- PUSH DOWN TO TIRE VALVES – Quick connect to tire valves, doesn’t need to screw into tire valves.
- COMPACT, PORTABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT – Simple design, easy to use, and solid feel.
- OVERSIZED CONTROL KNOB – Over-sized knob makes inflation easy.
- DURABLE MATERIALS – CNC-machined aluminum.
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Pros:
- Precise inflation and deflation to a pre-set PSI.
- Eliminates the risk of over-inflation.
- Quick and easy push-down connection to valve.
- Compact, portable, and lightweight.
- Durable CNC-machined aluminum construction.
- Oversized control knob for easy operation.
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Cons:
- Only compatible with Presta valves.
- CO2 cartridges are separate and single-use.
- Might have a slight learning curve for the pre-set feature.
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User Impressions: Users highly value the precision and control offered by the Skwiki inflator, especially for dialing in tire pressure perfectly. The build quality and ease of connection are frequently praised. It’s considered a standout for those who want more than just a basic CO2 blast.
8. CO2 Tyre Tire Inflator Puncture Tubeless Repair Tools Kit…
This CO2 Tire Inflator Puncture Tubeless Repair Tools Kit is an essential emergency kit for any cyclist running tubeless tires. It’s designed to get you out of a bind quickly when a puncture strikes far from home. Beyond simply inflating, it provides the necessary tools to patch your tire effectively, followed by a rapid CO2 inflation to get you rolling again. While generic, the concept of having a comprehensive kit for roadside emergencies is invaluable.
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Key Features:
- Emergency Vehicles Puncture Repair Kit for Tubeless Tires.
- Allows you to mend punctures quickly and effectively.
- Includes everything you need to fix a tire puncture on the go.
- Steps for use: Delete object, insert scrape, push and pull rasp to clean edges. (Note: CO2 inflator and repair strips are part of the broader kit type this describes, even if not explicitly listed in the features provided).
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Pros:
- Comprehensive solution for tubeless punctures and inflation.
- Provides quick and effective roadside repairs.
- Gets you back riding swiftly after a flat.
- Essential for peace of mind on longer rides.
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Cons:
- Often generic, so quality can vary between specific kits.
- CO2 cartridges are single-use.
- Requires practice to effectively use the plug tools.
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User Impressions: Customers find these kits to be life-savers during trailside emergencies. The convenience of having all necessary repair and inflation tools in one compact package is a major advantage, making them feel more confident on longer rides.
9. Schwalbe Tire Booster Tubeless Tire Inflator
From a brand synonymous with high-quality bike tires, the Schwalbe Tire Booster is a reliable solution for easy tubeless tire assembly. Developed in collaboration with Airshot, this light and handy cylinder is built for delivering that powerful blast of air needed to seat stubborn tubeless beads. Whether you’re in your garage or need a quick setup on the road, the Schwalbe Tire Booster ensures your tubeless tires are sealed properly and efficiently, up to 11 bar (approx. 160 PSI).
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Key Features:
- ‘Tire Booster’ from Schwalbe makes tubeless tyre assembly easy.
- Light, handy cylinder can be used both statically and on the road.
- Requires a powerful blast of air for tubeless tyre assembly to quickly press the tyre bead into the rim flange and seal the tyre.
- Developed in collaboration with the British start-up Airshot.
- Pressure of up to eleven bar can be immediately applied in the tyres.
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Pros:
- Reliable and powerful air blast for consistent bead seating.
- Portable and lightweight design for convenience.
- Endorsed by a reputable cycling brand (Schwalbe).
- Reusable, an eco-friendly alternative to CO2 cartridges.
- High-pressure capacity (up to 160 PSI).
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Cons:
- Requires a separate floor pump to charge.
- Larger and heavier than a compact CO2 inflator.
- Initial cost is higher than basic CO2 solutions.
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User Impressions: Riders trust the Schwalbe name, and this booster lives up to expectations, making tubeless setups stress-free. Its robust feel and powerful air delivery are consistently praised. It’s considered a fantastic investment for anyone frequently working with tubeless tires.
10. CYCLAMI Tire Booster – 1.2L Aluminum Alloy MTB Road…
The CYCLAMI Tire Booster is a versatile and high-capacity solution designed to tackle the trickiest tubeless tire installations. With its 1.2L aluminum alloy construction, it’s built to deliver a robust blast of air up to 200 PSI, ensuring your tire bead seats quickly and securely. Its clever universal valve compatibility (Presta/Schrader) means you can effortlessly switch between valve types, making it a truly adaptable tool for any cyclist’s arsenal, whether on the trail or in the workshop.
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Key Features:
- 【Presta/Schrader Valve Universal】Easy to operate, just reverse the valve direction for all kinds of bicycle models.
- 【COMPATIBLE with all tire sizes】26″, 27.5″, 27.5+”, 29″, “29+”, MTB, road, cyclocross and fat bikes.
- 【High Capacity Tire Cylinder】 1.2L large capacity, inflates tires rapidly with up to 200 PSI of air pressure.
- 【Lightweight and Convenient】Lightweight and convenient, the cylinder can be used both statically and on the road.
- Assembling tubeless tires requires a strong flow of air to quickly push the tire bead into the rim flange and seal the tire.
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Pros:
- High-capacity (1.2L) and high-pressure (200 PSI) for powerful bead seating.
- Universal Presta/Schrader valve compatibility, no adapters needed.
- Wide compatibility with all bike and tire sizes.
- Lightweight aluminum alloy construction.
- Reusable, reducing long-term costs and waste.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate floor pump for charging.
- Still larger than compact CO2 inflators, impacting ultimate portability.
- Can be more expensive upfront than basic CO2 options.
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User Impressions: Riders appreciate the impressive capacity and high-pressure delivery of the CYCLAMI booster, making tubeless setups hassle-free. The universal valve design is a standout feature, and its durable build quality ensures it’s a tool that lasts. It’s highly recommended for its effectiveness.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for the lightning-fast convenience of a compact CO2 tire inflator for tubeless emergencies or the powerful, reusable blast of a dedicated tubeless tire booster, having the right tool makes all the difference. For quick, on-the-go fixes, a CO2 inflator is hard to beat. But for consistent, stress-free tubeless installations at home, a booster like the Airshot or Schwalbe is invaluable.
Consider your primary use case: are you more likely to get a trailside flat that needs instant inflation, or do you frequently swap tires and sealant at home? Perhaps a combination of both is the ultimate tubeless insurance! Whichever you choose, investing in one of these top solutions will ensure you spend less time fixing and more time riding.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need a special inflator for tubeless tires?
A1: Tubeless tires require a rapid, high-volume burst of air to “seat” the tire bead firmly against the rim, creating an airtight seal. A standard floor pump often doesn’t deliver air fast enough for this initial seating. CO2 inflators or tubeless boosters provide this crucial powerful blast.
Q2: What’s the main difference between a CO2 inflator and a tubeless tire booster?
A2: A CO2 inflator uses disposable CO2 cartridges for instant, high-pressure inflation, ideal for quick trailside repairs. A tubeless tire booster is a reusable air tank that you pre-charge with a standard floor pump. It then releases a powerful, controlled blast of air, perfect for seating new tires at home or on the go without an air compressor.
Q3: How many CO2 cartridges do I need for a tubeless tire?
A3: For most mountain bike tires (27.5″ or 29″), a single 16g CO2 cartridge will inflate it to around 30-40 PSI. For road tires, a 16g cartridge can get you to 80-100 PSI. It’s always a good idea to carry at least two cartridges for emergencies, just in case of an issue with the first or if you need more pressure.
Q4: Are CO2 cartridges reusable?
A4: No, CO2 cartridges are single-use. Once punctured and the gas is released, they are empty and should be disposed of properly (recycled where facilities exist). Tubeless tire boosters, however, are completely reusable.
Q5: Can I use a CO2 inflator on any bike tire?
A5: Yes, most CO2 inflators are compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves (the two main types of bike tire valves), either through a reversible head or a dual-head design. You can use them on any tire that accepts these valves, but they are particularly beneficial for tubeless setups due to the high-pressure demand.
Q6: Does CO2 affect tubeless sealant?
A6: There’s some debate, but generally, the rapid cooling effect of CO2 can cause some tubeless sealants to coagulate or dry out more quickly. For this reason, it’s recommended to ride home and then deflate the tire, remove the old CO2-exposed air, and reinflate with a regular pump to put fresh, ambient air back into the tire, especially if you plan to keep that sealant for a while.
Q7: How do I properly seat a tubeless tire bead with a booster?
A7:
1. Remove the valve core from your tubeless valve stem for maximum airflow.
2. Pre-charge your tubeless booster with a floor pump to its recommended PSI (e.g., 120-160 PSI).
3. Mount your tire on the rim, ensuring it’s as centered as possible.
4. Connect the booster’s nozzle tightly to the valve stem.
5. Release the air from the booster rapidly. You should hear the tire beads “pop” into place.
6. Once seated, remove the booster, quickly reinsert the valve core, and then inflate to your desired pressure with a floor pump.
Q8: What PSI should I aim for when inflating with CO2 for tubeless?
A8: For tubeless repairs, you typically want enough pressure to get you home or finish your ride safely. This is often around 25-35 PSI for mountain bikes and 60-80 PSI for road bikes, depending on your weight and riding style. It’s usually best to top it off with a standard pump when you get home to your preferred riding pressure.
