A puncture in the mountains is not forum theory: low gravel pressure changes cut risk, and asphalt heat adds failure modes. On guided tours organizers run sweep and recovery, yet each rider carries a minimal tubeless kit and knows when not to improvise. Below: pressure, plugs, pump, and limits of self-help.
Pressure by surface
Gravel pressures drop per briefing — typically 0.2–0.4 bar below asphalt, not by guess.
Check cold tires in the morning; do not bleed hot tires immediately after sun exposure.
Tubeless repair
Plug plus CO₂/pump only for tread punctures, never sidewall. Sidewall — stop, sweep.
After plugging — moderate speed to hotel, not racing.
When to wait for sweep
Second puncture same day, rim damage, cord showing — sweep/truck only.
Do not wheel-swap on a slope without a second person spotting.
What to carry
Gauge, pump, plugs, valve tools, tape. Spare tube only if the tour bike is not tubeless.
Tire questions — tour card and fleet page.
| Case | Self | Sweep | Continue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tread nail | Plug | Notify | Yes, careful |
| Sidewall | Stop | Yes | No |
| Worn out | Stop | Yes | No |
| Low P | Pump | No | After check |
FAQ
01Chains needed?
Only if stated in that departure briefing.
02Organizer replaces tires?
On wear/damage — handled on route case by case.
03Sealant allowed?
Ask first — may complicate pannier service.
04Winter mountain pressure?
Separate briefing; do not copy summer numbers.
05Where to practice repair?
At home on a scrap tire plus 200 km shakedown.