by Brian Maslach
I've been a convert to the benefits of tubeless tires on all of my current bikes for a few years now, but I only recently started using plugs to repair punctures. Now that I've done so, I'm asking myself why I didn't catch on sooner.
Plugging a punctured tubeless tire is quick and easy, and usually prevents one from needing to insert a tube or deal with sealant spraying onto their bike, gear, and body. Plugs are constructed of a rubber or rubber-like material, and they literally "plug" relatively small holes in tubeless tires. The same basic technology has been used in automotive tires since soon after the pneumatic tire was developed by Michelin in 1885. Larger tears due to sharp rocks or other objects are often too large for plugs to be of use. These generally require a "boot" and tube to get back home.
The Dynaplug Pill enclosed in its durable aluminum case.
Everything you need to quickly seal a pesky tubeless tire puncture.
I've found that it's critical to select the right tubeless tire plug tool. I've been using a Dynaplug Pill with great results, but tried a Stan's Original DART Tool last week since I had it on hand after getting it at a gravel race last year. Unfortunately, the Stan's tool was a complete failure as both its "DARTS" broke off while I attempted to push them through the puncture. It was quite frustrating to be standing on the side of the road trying to fix a flat and having a double failure with the tool I was using. Thankfully I had a spare tube in my seat bag that I was able to install to get home. Once I got home, I researched other people's experiences and found them to be similar to mine: breakage seems to be all too common.
The Stan's Dart.
The DART's failure appears to be due to it being made of plastic, whereas the Dynaplug tool is constructed from metal. I've used the Dynaplug about a dozen times so far and (knock on wood) it hasn't failed me.
A broken Stan's Dart.
How does your experience compare? Have you tried either of these, or have you found another tool or technique to work well to fix tubeless tire punctures? Please let me know in the comment section below.
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