While there are some tyre/rim combinations that just seem not to work, IME most tubeless problems come down to rim tape. Whether it’s a matter of not being fitted correctly or there not being enough, getting the taping right will solve it.
My routine is:
- Unwrap tyre and allow to get somewhere near its proper shape, ideally in a warm place.
- Clean the rim
- Apply rim tape
- Insert valve and remove valve core
- Mount the tyre (making sure to observe any directional markings
) - Inflate the tyre making sure it’s mounted securely and evenly all the way around.
- Remove pump and add sealant
- Replace valve core and reinflate to desired riding pressure.
- Go for a ride.
- Check the sealant and add more if necessary as some tyres soak up the initial shot of sealant so there isn’t any left to deal with punctures.
When inflating/mounting the tyre if the tyre doesn’t slide easily across the rim tape you’ll need some form of air reservoir to give it a kick - I’ve an Airshot - but I’ve mounted fat bike tyres using just a track pump so while it makes things easier it’s not essential.
Tubeless can be either really easy or really frustrating, I’ve had a tyre mount and stay inflated without sealant for 48hrs but the next wheel using the same tyre on the same rim wouldn’t inflate even with an Airshot.