A tubeless tire insert is a foam component that installs inside a tubeless tire, between the tire casing and the rim. It dampens impacts, supports the tire during compression, and helps protect the rim—especially on rough gravel roads, washboard, and rocky surfaces.

No. Tubeless inserts do not replace sealant.
Sealant is designed to seal punctures, while inserts help prevent rim strikes, reduce tire collapse, and limit damage from sharp impacts. On gravel, the combination is especially effective against pinch flats and sidewall damage.

Gravel riding combines long distances, unpredictable terrain, and limited access to repairs. Tubeless inserts add reliability, allowing riders to run lower pressures for comfort and traction while reducing the risk of rim damage or ride-ending flats far from help.

When properly sized, tubeless inserts improve control without making the ride harsh. Many gravel riders report increased stability on loose surfaces and better confidence when riding aggressively or carrying gear.

No. Tubeless inserts are widely used in gravel and road bikes, especially by riders prioritizing comfort, rim protection, and self-sufficiency on mixed terrain.

Tannus Tubeless Gravel and Tannus Tubeless Lite are lightweight tubeless tire inserts designed to improve ride quality and reliability. The main difference is support level and intended riding conditions.

• Tannus Tubeless Gravel provides increased damping and rim protection for rough gravel, loaded bikes, and mixed-surface riding.
• Tannus Tubeless Lite focuses on minimal weight and subtle support for smoother gravel, all-road, and endurance-focused setups.

Choose Tannus Tubeless Gravel if you:

• Ride rough or chunky gravel
• Encounter washboard, rocks, or potholes
• Carry bikepacking gear or ride long distances
• Want added rim protection without sacrificing efficiency

Gravel inserts are tuned for comfort, control, and durability over long rides.

Choose Tannus Tubeless Lite if you:

• Ride road or gravel terrain
• Prioritize low weight and efficiency
• Want subtle damping without changing ride feel
• Race gravel or ride at higher average speeds

Lite is designed to be barely noticeable while still adding protection.

Watch our Tannus Tubeless installation video for a step-by-step walkthrough that shows proper insert sizing, valve setup, sealant use, and tips for an easier install. CLICK HERE TO WATCH.

Installing tubeless inserts in gravel tires is slightly more involved than a standard tubeless setup, but it is manageable with basic tools. Gravel tires are often more flexible than MTB tires, which can make installation easier.

Yes. Sealant is required when using tubeless inserts. Sealant continues to function normally around the insert and is critical for sealing punctures common in gravel riding.

Usually, yes. Tubeless inserts allow gravel riders to run slightly lower pressures, improving comfort and traction on loose or uneven surfaces while reducing rim strike risk.