Which Inner Tube for Your Bike and How to Fit It?

Installing a tubetype tire or an inner tube may seem tricky, but with the right steps, it's easy to get it right. Follow these step-by-step tips to mount your tire properly and ride with confidence.

This guide also includes practical recommendations to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a safe, efficient setup, whether you're preparing for a daily commute or tackling Canadian roads and trails.

Fitting a Standard Tire with an Inner Tube

Tubeless Ready (MTB)

All Michelin MTB tires with foldable beads in both the Performance Line and Racing Line are Tubeless Ready, meaning they can be installed without inner tubes if the following conditions are met:

• Use a Tubeless Ready or UST-compatible rim

• Do not exceed the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall

• Add a sealant liquid, such as latex, to ensure airtight performance

• Check tire pressure before every ride for safety and performance

Removing a Tubeless Tire

To remove a tubeless tire:

1. Unclip both beads and push them into the rim well

2. Place two tire levers about 10 cm apart, on either side of the valve

3. Lift both levers simultaneously to bring the tire bead over the rim edge and fully release the first bead

4. Remove the second bead by hand

The Michelin Protek Max inner tube offers advanced puncture resistance using two key technologies:

• Its textured surface and compression help seal small punctures naturally

• A self-sealing liquid moves to the puncture site through the combination of internal air pressure and wheel rotation

This tube can still function after removing the object that caused the puncture—as long as the rim, tire, and Protek Max tube remain intact and properly inflated.

Note: The Protek Max tube is not designed for repair and should be replaced if damaged beyond sealing.

Tire Maintenance

To extend the life of your tires, perform a quick inspection before each ride:

• Remove debris (stones, glass, flint) lodged in the tread using a small tool like a screwdriver.

• Clean tires with water only—avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the tire’s fabric or casing.

• For small cuts, apply rubber repair patches on the inside to prevent further damage.

• Be especially cautious after rain, as wet roads make sharp debris like flint more visible and dangerous, increasing the risk of cuts.

Proper Tire Storage

When your bike is not in use:

• Store your tires in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent rubber degradation.

• Avoid prolonged sun exposure. UV rays and heat can prematurely age the rubber.

Handling Punctures

If you experience a puncture:

Replace the rim band each time you replace a tire or inner tube to help prevent future flats and ensure proper sealing and fit.

Fitting Direction for Mountain Bike Tires

Tire direction matters for optimizing traction and braking:

• Front tires: Designed primarily for braking.

• Rear tires: Built for traction.

• Check for the arrow on the tire’s sidewall indicating rolling direction, and markings that specify “Front” or “Rear.”

Understanding Tire Pressure for Optimal Performance

Tire pressure depends on several factors:

• Rider weight

• Tire width

• Bike setup (e.g. front or full suspension)

• Intended use (e.g. trail, road, commuting)

Refer to Michelin’s pressure guide to find the recommended tire pressure for your setup, ensuring safety, performance, and comfort, especially important on diverse Canadian terrains.