Are you contemplating changing to tubeless tires or upgrading your existing setup?
With the growing demand for tubeless road tires among cyclists for their increased comfort and improved rolling resistance, many tire manufacturers now offer an extensive selection of options.
Modern road tubeless tires are lighter, easier to install, and come in many sizes up to 40c. Even the pros have transitioned from racing on tubular tires to reaping the benefits of tubeless tires, especially in races such as the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix.
Here are the six tubeless tires I rate highly based on my research and experience using them.
Best for all-round riding
Continental GP 5000 S TR
- Sizes : 700x24c, 700x26c, 700x28c, 700x30c, 700x32c, 700x34c
- Weight : 298g (700x28c)
- TPI : 110
The Continental GP 5000 S TR is a tire that I rate the highest and is the gold standard for a tubeless road tire. It’s the successor to the discontinued GP5000 TL. The GP 5000 S TR is one of three tires in the range, along with the GP 5000 AS TR (All Season) and GP 5000 TT TR (Time Trial).
Built with Continental’s renowned BlackChilli compound and now compatible with hookless rims, the GP 5000 S TR is available in four sizes (25, 28, 30, and 32mm) and two colors (black and tan wall). The 700x28c version weighs 280g, providing the ideal balance between low rolling resistance, weight, and puncture resistance with its 2 x 110 TPI construction.
However, it is expensive and may be tough to install or remove, particularly for first-time tubeless tire users or those without an air compressor.
Best value for money
Schwalbe Pro One TLE
- Sizes : 700x25c, 700x28c, 700x30c, 700x34c
- Weight : 263g (700x25c)
- Hookless compatible : Yes
- TPI : 2 x 127
The Schwalbe Pro One TLE is a top-of-the-line tubeless road tire from the reputable German tire manufacturer Schwalbe. This all-rounder tire uses the Addix Race Compound launched in 2019, and is hookless rim compatible.
The Schwalbe Pro One TLE is available in four sizes (25, 28, 30, and 32mm) and comes in black and transparent (brown) sidewall colors. Weighing 263g for the 700x25c size, it offers a balanced performance for all types of road riding. It provides excellent grip and puncture protection with a 2.7mm tread thickness. It’s also easy to install compared to many tubeless tires.
However, as an older model compared to its competitors, a refresh from Schwalbe may be due very soon.
Best for puncture protection
Vittoria Corsa N.EXT TLR
- Sizes : 700x24c, 700x26c, 700x28c, 700x30c, 700x32c, 700x34c
- Weight : 298g (700x28c)
- TPI : 110
The Vittoria Corsa N.EXT TLR is an upgrade from the Vittoria Corsa G2.0 TLR and is now compatible with hookless rims.
Available in six sizes (24, 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34mm) and only in black, the Corsa N.EXT TLR features an impressive 3.1mm tread thickness and 1mm sidewall thickness. These specifications provide excellent puncture protection and higher mileage, making it an ideal choice if you’re after a durable tire. The 700x34c model can be ridden on smooth gravel.
The tradeoff for excellent puncture protection is the higher rolling resistance than other tires on this list. Despite this drawback, it is an ideal tire if durability and reliability are your priorities.
Other alternatives :
Best lightweight
Panaracer Agilest TLR
- Ideal for : Lightweight
- Sizes : 700x25c, 700x28c, 700x30c, 700x32c
- Weight : 250g (700x28c)
- Hookless compatible : Yes
The Panaracer Agilest TLR is a lightweight, tubeless road tire from the Japanese tire brand Panaracer, well-known for its GravelKing series. Replacing the Evo 3 road tire range from 2018, the Panaracer Agilest TLR is made from Panaracer’s latest casing materials and the ZSG AGILE Compound.
This tire is hookless rim compatible and is available in black and amber colors in four sizes (25, 28, 30, and 32mm). Weighing just 235g for the 28mm size, it is the lightest 28mm tubeless tire available, which is around 15% lighter than the average weight for 28mm tires.
Being a light tire with a 1.8mm tread thickness and 0.7mm sidewall thickness, the Panaracer Agilest TLR has below-average puncture protection properties of other tires on the list and isn’t ideal for everyday riding.
Lowest rolling resistance
Veloflex Record TLR
- Sizes : 700x25c
- Weight : 170g (700x28c)
- TPI : 350
The Veloflex Record TLR, a lightweight, tubeless road tire by the small Italian manufacturer Veloflex, is ideal for time trials and weight-conscious riders. As a handmade tire crafted in Italy, it is the second generation of Veloflex tubeless tires, following the Corsa Race TLR and Corsa Evo TLR launched in 2020.
Featuring a 350 TPI casing and a blend of natural rubber and silica compound, the Veloflex Record TLR is available in 25c size and tan wall color only. Weighing only 175g for 25c, it has the lowest rolling resistance (at least 20%) than other tubeless tires on this list and is easy to mount.
The tradeoff for having the lowest rolling resistance is puncture protection. The tire tread is very thin (1.1mm), prone to punctures, and not ideal for everyday riding. Additionally, the 25mm tire width may not be compatible with hookless rims with 23mm or wider internal rim widths.
Tubeless tires FAQ
What are the main benefits of using tubeless road bike tires over traditional tubed tires?
From the user’s perspective, the primary benefits of tubeless road bike tires include improved puncture resistance, lower rolling resistance, and better ride comfort due to their ability to run at lower pressures.
The absence of an inner tube reduces the likelihood of pinch flats and, combined with tire sealant, helps seal small punctures quickly. Additionally, lower rolling resistance can enhance performance and energy efficiency, making tubeless tires popular among cyclists.
More reading : The Disadvantages of Tubeless Tires
Are tubeless road bike tires compatible with my current bike rims, or do I need to upgrade to tubeless-ready rims?
Tubeless road bike tires require tubeless-ready rims designed to create an airtight seal. Before switching, check your bike rims for compatibility or consult the manufacturer’s specifications.
If your rims aren’t compatible, you’ll need to upgrade to tubeless-ready rims or use a tubeless conversion kit. Also, ensure your bike frame and brakes can accommodate the desired tire width.
More reading : How to Get Started with Tubeless Tires
How do I choose the right size and width for tubeless road bike tires to fit my bike and riding style?
First, check your bike’s specifications for the recommended tire sizes to find the right size and width. Consider the type of terrain and conditions you typically encounter for riding style.
Wider tires offer better traction, grip, and comfort, while narrower tires may have lower rolling resistance and feel faster.
More reading : The Benefits of Using Wide Tires
What tire tread pattern and rubber compound should I look for?
For dry pavement and racing, a slick, smooth tread is suitable. A tire tread with more prominent grooves may provide a better grip on wet surfaces or gravel.
For rubber compounds, softer compounds offer better grip but wear out faster, while harder compounds last longer but might not provide the same level of traction.
More reading : Soft vs Hard Compounds - Which is Better?
How do I properly install tubeless road bike tires, and do I need any special tools or equipment?
Installing tubeless road bike tires requires additional steps, such as applying sealant and ensuring an airtight seal between the tire and rim.
You’ll need a tubeless tire lever, valve core remover, tubeless-compatible rim tape, sealant, and a high-pressure floor pump or air compressor.
What type of sealant should I use for my tubeless road bike tires, and how often should I check or replace the sealant?
There are several sealants available, each with its own unique formula. Popular choices include Orange Seal, Stan’s NoTubes, and Finish Line. Choose a sealant that is compatible with your tire and has good reviews.
Check the sealant level every 2 to 4 months, and replenish or replace it as needed.
More reading : How Much Tire Sealant to Use?
How do I maintain and care for my tubeless road bike tires to ensure optimal performance and longevity?
Maintaining tubeless road bike tires involves regularly checking and adjusting tire pressure, monitoring sealant levels, and inspecting the tires for wear, damage, or embedded debris. Keeping the tires clean and addressing any issues promptly will help extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance.
Bernard Lu has 7+ years of experience working in a bicycle shop, overseeing the retail and workshop operations. He’s a qualified bicycle mechanic who understands a cyclist’s needs and speaks the same cycling lingo.
If you meet him at the cafe, he will happily talk to you for hours about all the intricacies of bikes and cycling tech. Just buy him a coffee next time you see him.