Tuesday Tip: Check your tire sealant

This weekend I had my first DNF at the Magalies Monster because I had multiple punctures. This leads to this weeks tip - Check the tire sealant in your tubeless tires. 

The sealant in your tires is what prevents you from punctures. When you get a puncture, the sealant is forced out the hole and tiny micro-fibres/crystals harden and form a plug that reseals the tire. I've had fairly large punctures fixed on the fly with sealant spraying out the tire, within a few seconds the tire was sealed and I just had to top up the air and continue on my ride. 

When it's no longer liquid, it's not going to do anything for you. Sealant only stays liquid for a few months (In my experience about 6 months). The hotter the climate, the shorter the time.

Make sure you check your tire sealant levels before any major ride, especially if you're going to depend on it to get you home. It may also be a good idea to carry a spare tube to use in case of sealant failure.