Ah, the hookless rim debate! It’s a good question, and I get why you’re a bit unsure about the whole tyre situation. Hookless rims are becoming more popular, especially in the high-end wheel market, but they do have some specific requirements when it comes to tyres.
So, here’s the deal: Yes, you do need to use tyres that are specifically designed and approved for hookless rims. Your regular clincher tyres might not be safe or even compatible with hookless rims, and here’s why.
Hookless rims don’t have that little “hook” or bead on the inside edge that traditional rims have. This hook is what usually helps clincher tyres stay seated on the rim under high pressure. Without that hook, the tyre relies entirely on the tight fit between the tyre bead and the rim wall to stay in place. If the tyre isn’t designed with this in mind, there’s a risk it could blow off the rim, especially when you’re running higher pressures.
Most tyres that are approved for hookless rims will say so on the sidewall or in the specs from the manufacturer. These tyres are typically tubeless, which work well with hookless because they can be run at lower pressures, offering a nice mix of comfort, grip, and puncture resistance. If you’re set on going hookless, I’d definitely recommend going tubeless as well—it’s kind of the perfect match.
One more thing to keep in mind is the pressure limits. Hookless rims often have a maximum pressure rating that’s lower than what you might be used to. It’s usually around 72.5 psi (5 bar), depending on the tyre and rim combo. Exceeding this can be dangerous, so make sure to check both the tyre and rim manufacturer’s recommendations.
In a nutshell, don’t just throw any old tyre on a hookless rim. Stick to tyres that are designed for them, ideally tubeless, and keep an eye on the pressure. If you get it right, hookless rims can offer a great ride—light, fast, and comfortable. Hope that helps!