For the average racer, gluing a tubular tyre is a messy ordeal. For pro team mechanics, it’s a part of virtually every day on a Grand Tour. This isn’t just because of punctures. Tyres wear out, pick up glass, wheels break and conditions change. When you have nine riders and each of them has a minimum of four bikes (race, two spare, and TT), that’s 36 bikes. 72 wheels right there. Add to that 10 pairs or more of spare wheels and you have a pile of work on your hands.
Presented here is a visual step-by-step guide on how, in my experience, most pro mechanics guarantee a safe, clean installation of a tubular. Lampre-Merida mechanic Moreno Bacchion was very helpful. Attempts at questions and answers were difficult as Moreno doesn’t speak English and our French didn’t seem to function too well either.
Observation can be a powerful teacher though. Sometimes words only get in the way. If you’re a visual learner, look through the photos and captions. If you prefer words, read below. Best of all would be to both read the guide below, then scroll through the gallery.
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Bookmark this page if you only infrequently glue up a tyre for yourself. It shows a pro doing extremely efficient work. For us mortals, gluing a tyre is absolutely doable. It is a multi-day process though. So take your time and if you’re unsure, ask a mechanic you trust.
Also note that these instructions are for a new road tubular tyre and a tubular wheel that has already seen a tyre and glue. Ideally, for a new rim, build up three or more thin layers of glue over the course of several days. Apply a thin layer of glue to the tyre’s base tape as well – more if the tyre’s base is especially absorbent. Let each layer you apply dry overnight. For cyclocross or track racing, you’ll want to take extra steps.
How to fit tubular tyres
Step 1: Prepare the tyre
Step 2: Prepare the wheel
Step 3: Coffee break
Step 4: Apply the glue
Step 5: Ready for tyre installation
Step 6: Get your swell on
Step 7: Install the tyre
Step 8: Cleanliness is next to godliness
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