Switching from standard tires with tubes to tubeless tires can be done two ways. You can buy new rims, labeled with the acronym UST, and purchase tubeless tires, or you can convert your standard rims to run with tubeless tires. For the latter, a conversion kit is recommended, though it is often a messy process. Buying new rims and tires is easier, but it has its drawbacks as well, such as the initial cost.
Total Tubeless Conversion
The simplest way to begin running tubeless is to buy tubeless rims and tires. Once you have the components, you just need to learn how to change the tire when it's flat. Most shops and online stores have UST rims and tires. Be prepared to pay more up front, however, depending on your quality choice. Bike Radar gave Mavic's XM819 UST black disc rim four of five stars. It costs about $75, as of January 2011. Utah Mountain Biking says you can pay $400 to $1,000 for total conversion, as UST tires cost approximately twice as much as regular tires.
Conversion Kits
If investing a great deal of money is not in your budget, and you like to tinker with your bike, a conversion kit might be the right choice. You can buy a conversion kit online or at a local bike shop. They usually include tubeless sealing strips, tape, a tire sealant and a small measuring cup. In about 10 minutes, you can convert almost any lightweight rims and tires to run without tubes.
Tools For Conversion
In addition to a tubeless conversion kit, you will need a drill with a 3/8- or 7/16-inch drill bit, a hand file, an air compressor or floor pump, soapy water, a brush or sponge and a bucket. You will need to drill into your rim, but Bloom Bike Shop says this will not cause damage, even if you decide to go back to tubes. Depending on the rims, you may be able to keep your current rim tape, using that in the conversion for a tighter fit.
Other Options
If your rims are not too deep, you can convert your wheels without a conversion kit. Cutting up a child's size 20- or 24-inch inner tire tube will create your rim liners, though Utah Mountain Biking says it is difficult to cut a straight line with rubber. You will still need rim tape and tire sealant for your makeshift kit, as well as the other tools. The process will be the same.
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