At the 2025 Unbound Gravel Grand Prix, the stakes were high, the roads were rough, and three of the top five finishers made one choice that helped them stay in the race when others didn’t, Tannus Tubeless Inserts.
Unbound is infamous for its sharp rocks, long distances, and unpredictable terrain. It’s the kind of event where even one mistake, one hidden rock, one pinch flat, can end your day. That’s why riders like Cameron Jones, Simon Pellaud, and Brendan Johnston chose Tannus, and heir results speak for themselves.
Cameron Jones: First Place, Full Protection
Cameron Jones wasn’t on anyone’s shortlist heading into Unbound, but by the end of the day, he was standing on the top step. A wildcard entry, he crossed the line with a time of 8:37:08.38, which not only placed him first, but was also a course record! Cam was riding Tannus Tubeless Gravel Inserts in both wheels.
“Reckon it saved me early race when it’s hard to see rocks in the bunch.”
The early miles are often the riskiest. Tight groups, loose surfaces, and poor visibility mean tires are more likely to take damage. The Tannus Tubeless Gravel Insert gives that extra layer of rim protection and support, letting riders run lower pressures without worrying about flats or burping.
Simon Pellaud: Second Place, Featherweight Confidence
Just 42 seconds behind, Simon Pellaud finished second with a time of 8:37:50.54. He ran Tannus Tubeless Lite Inserts in both tires, a choice that gave him race-day performance without compromising weight.
“Invisible, you don’t feel them and they’re not ‘drinking’ any sealant. The best protection for my dear DT SWISS wheels and my tires.”
The Lite Insert is perfect for racers who still want that tubeless feel and speed but aren’t willing to gamble their day on luck. It’s ideal for tubeless gravel tires where weight matters but durability can’t be sacrificed.
Brendan Johnston: Fifth Place, Smart Setup
Brendan Johnston placed fifth with a time of 8:47:42.60, running a hybrid insert configuration. He used a Tannus Lite Insert in the front for responsive steering, and a Tannus Gravel Insert in the rear for added durability where the bike takes the most abuse.
It’s a smart balance. The front tire often needs to stay agile, while the rear tire carries more load and takes more hits. This setup helps maintain control without risking a flat when the trail turns technical or sharp.
Tannus Tubeless Insert Setups at Unbound 2025
Each of these riders made a decision to go beyond sealant-only setups and added a layer of protection that didn’t slow them down. Unlike traditional inner tubes or thick tire liners, Tannus inserts work seamlessly inside tubeless tires, helping eliminate flats without affecting ride feel.
Why Riders Choose Tannus for Gravel Racing
Tannus inserts provide a level of protection and peace of mind that riders can't get from standard tubeless setups alone. They allow for lower pressures for better traction, they prevent rim strikes, and they keep the tire stable even in the harshest conditions.
The Gravel Insert is built for long endurance races, demanding terrain, and riders who don’t want to compromise. The Lite Insert is perfect for race day when speed is key, but you still want some backup built into your tires. Both options are a clear step up from relying on sealant alone or risking a flat on unforgiving roads.
These inserts are becoming more popular not just in elite gravel racing, but in casual riders, backcountry rides, and even adventure commuting. They install easily, don’t interfere with tire sealant, and work silently in the background until you need them.
Conclusion: Ride What the Podium Rides
The 2025 Unbound Gravel Grand Prix proved that the fastest riders are also the smartest. Cameron, Simon, and Brendan all made it into the top four by pushing their limits and trusting their gear. And when the terrain got wild, Tannus Tubeless Inserts helped keep them in the fight.
This wasn’t about luck. It was about protection, performance, and finishing strong. Whether you’re racing, training, or just riding hard, ride what the winners ride. Ride Tannus.
