Should MTB wheels have rim tape?

unixnerd
unixnerd Posts: 2,864
edited May 2011 in MTB workshop & tech
Just had a new rear wheel built for me. It doesn't have rim tape but the old rim had none either. Today I had my first ever puncture on a mountain bike, I must have lead a charm life up until now! First time out on the new rim.

I installed it a few days ago and when I went to ride it today it felt a bit soft so I topped up the air. 12 miles later it went flat on me. Can't see a hole in the tube but I can hear where it's coming from so must be a tiny hole (tomorrow's job!). I'm guessing there's a rough bit on the rim or something sharp. I'm pretty sure I didn't trap it under the tyre, I checked when I installed it. But only then did it strike me that unlike road bike wheels these don't seem to have rim tape. Is that because they're run at lower pressures?
http://www.strathspey.co.uk - Quality Binoculars at a Sensible Price.
Specialized Roubaix SL3 Expert 2012, Cannondale CAAD5,
Marin Mount Vision (1997), Edinburgh Country tourer, 3 cats!

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    yes there should be rim tape unless it is a full UST set up.

    or has covered spoke/nipple holes/
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • maddog 2
    maddog 2 Posts: 8,114
    +1
    Facts are meaningless, you can use facts to prove anything that's remotely true! - Homer
  • unixnerd
    unixnerd Posts: 2,864
    Tape now installed.
    http://www.strathspey.co.uk - Quality Binoculars at a Sensible Price.
    Specialized Roubaix SL3 Expert 2012, Cannondale CAAD5,
    Marin Mount Vision (1997), Edinburgh Country tourer, 3 cats!

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