When using hookless rims, the correct use is extremely important where by the prescribed operating parameters and mounting requirements must be adhered to. In contrast to rims with hooks on the inner-rim flank, hookless rims (hookless: "without hooks") have a straight sidewall on the inside and usually a wider rim width.
"Hookless or straight side rims may only be combined with Schwalbe TLE/TLR tires (Tubeless Easy/Tubeless Ready). These tires can be used both with inner tubes and tubeless on hookless rims. The compatible (tubeless) tire widths specified by the wheel/rim manufacturer must be taken into account. In particular the minimum tire widths. This restriction applies regardless of the intended use (MTB, gravel/cross, city/tour, road bike)," emphasizes Schwalbe Product Manager Felix Schäfermeier.
Schwalbe's tubeless tires are safe on hookless rims if they are used with the correct tire width and air pressure. This is due to the bead core, for which one property is essential: it must be high-strength and must not expand. This is ultimately more expensive in production, but for such a safety-relevant component, it is completely non-negotiable for us at Schwalbe. Thanks to the high-strength core, the tire does not expand under pressure and stays on the rim. Schwalbe builds tires that fit perfectly on ETRTO-compliant rims.
"Our bead core is extremely strong and stable and makes no compromises when it comes to safety. At the same time, it enables easy fitting without any tools" states
Schäfermeier.
The inner diameter of the bead core also plays a decisive role: at Schwalbe, it has perfect dimensions so that the tire fits securely and is easy to mount and inflate.
The inner diameter of the bead core also plays a decisive role: at Schwalbe, it has perfect dimensions so that the tire fits securely and is easy to mount and inflate.
SPECIAL NOTES ON HOOKLESS RIMS AND USE WITH SCHWALBE TLE TIRES:
- Hookless rims, also called "Straight Side", are characterized by the fact that the small hook at the end of the rim flank is missing.
- The official designation for tubeless hookless rims according to ETRTO is "TSS".
- The rim used must comply with the ETRTO standard for hookless rims (straight side).
- The specified air pressure of tire and rim must be observed. If the specified maximum pressure of the rim is lower than that of the tire, the maximum pressure of the rim must be observed. This is the rule with tubeless hookless rims (TSS).
- The compatible tire widths specified by the wheel/rim manufacturer must be taken into account. Especially the minimum tire widths.
- If hookless rims are only designated by the manufacturer for tubeless operation, they cannot be used with tube-type tires and therefore bicycle inner tubes
- Schwalbe plays it safe in its extensive tests;
While the ISO specifies 1.1 times the pressure applied for five minutes for safety tests of compatible tire and wheel sizes with a hookless system,
Schwalbe tests all products for 1.6 times the maximum permissible air pressure for tires or rims for a period of 60 minutes, including TLR/TLE tires on the hookless rims. Nevertheless, the specified tire and rim pressure must be observed. - Maximum air pressure recommendations for Schwalbe TLE / TLR tires on straight side / hookless rims are as follows:
Tire width in mm | Max. Air pressure |
| 18-24 | 5,5 bar - 80 PSI |
| 25-29 | 5 bar - 72 PSI |
| 30-34 | 4,5 bar - 65 PSI |
| 35-39 | 4 bar - 58 PSI |
| 40-44 | 3,5 bar - 51 PSI |
| 45-54 | 3 bar - 44 PSI |
| 55-64 | 2,5 bar - 36 PSI |
| 65-74 | 2 bar - 29 PSI |
| 75-84 | 1,5 bar - 22 PSI |
Tubeless Road Bike Wheels
- The test results relate exclusively to mounting with Schwalbe tubeless tires and are not valid for other tire brands.
- These are Schwalbe’s in-house test procedures. The result is not an official approval.
- The list is updated regularly.
Overview of Hookless Rims
- Less weight compared to conventional "hook" rims.
- Hookless rims produce a rounder tire contour, which has a positive effect on the riding characteristics.
- Due to the comparatively high volume of tires on hookless rims, the practical air pressures are significantly lower. This increases comfort and grip.