Tuesday 6 November 2012

Hutchinson Fusion 3 tubeless tyres fitted

This is the first time I've fitted tubeless bicycle road tyres, and I wasn't quite sure what to expect. My previous experience with bicycle tyres in general (reasonable), tubeless MTB tyres (limited), and tubeless motorcycle and car tyres (considerable is probably an understatement) suggested that fitting these would be a doddle. On the other hand, most reports I've read online, both by Joe Public and supposed press professionals, generally indicated that superhuman strength, heavy duty tyre levers, and a compressor of industrial proportions would be needed.

I popped the tyres in the airing cupboard for half an hour first (warm tyres are that bit more flexible and stretchy) then applied diluted liquid soap to the beads with my finger. The first side went on by hand in a flash, followed by most of the second side. I did then resort to a second pair of hands to help me get to within about nine inches of bead remaining, but could proceed no further with my bare hands. Three gentle applications of a single normal plastic bicycle tyre lever then effortlessly popped the last section into place.

A simple track pump was then applied. The first (front) tyre took about 30 seconds with my glamorous assistant pumping and me gently manipulating to get a complete seal, and even less time to get from there to 100psi - per the sidewall, which states "REC. PRESSURE 7.0 BAR (100 PSI) MAX. PRESSURE 8.7 BAR (125 PSI)". The second (rear) tyre went straight up, right from the first stroke on the track pump, without needing any manipulating whatsoever.

Momentarily over-inflating a tyre (within reason) can help to get the best possible mating of beads and rim, but these appear to have gone on very neatly without needing any special persuasion, and the beads and the tread look perfectly concentric when the wheel is spun.

No sealant used - let's see what pressure they are at in 24 hours time.

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