Flat tires are one of cycling’s biggest annoyances — especially if they happen mid-ride or far from home. The Tannus Armour Tire Insert promises to dramatically reduce flats and improve ride comfort by placing a dense protective layer between your tire and tube without sacrificing performance. Let’s break down how it works, who it’s best for, installation, and whether it’s worth the upgrade.
What It Is — Key Features
- Protective insert: Dense poly material that lives between tire and tube
- Puncture reduction: Helps shield the tube from thorns, glass, and sharp debris
- Fitment: Designed to match specific tire sizes (e.g., 700x28–700x35, MTB widths, etc.)
- Weight: Adds some grams, but balance and comfort benefits often outweigh this
- Compatibility: Works with most tubed road, hybrid, gravel, and mountain bike tires
In essence, the Armour insert is a non-inflating layer of puncture resistance that sits under your tire casing — like armor for your tube.
Why Consider a Tire Insert?
Traditional puncture protection takes the form of sticky belts integrated into tire rubber. Those help, but if you still ride sharp roads, rough trails, or debris-strewn routes, a puncture can still happen. That’s where a tire insert adds another layer of defense.
- Added protection: Two layers > one layer — real choice for frequent flats
- Ride comfort: Armored material can damp vibration and reduce harshness
- Peace of mind: Ride farther from home without worrying about flats
Especially for commuters, gravel riders, and mountain bikers, reducing flats saves time, frustration, and roadside repairs.
How It Works — Simple Breakdown
A tire insert like the Tannus Armour sits inside the tire, directly on the rim, and wraps around the tube. When you inflate the tire, the armour compresses between the tire casing and tube. If something sharp tries to puncture through, that dense layer helps stop it before the tube gets pierced.
- Easy to cut and size: Trim to match your tire width
- Wrap around: Install directly on the rim bed
- Add tube/tubeless: Works with tubes and tubeless setups
Installation & Setup Tips
Installing a tire insert is a bit more involved than mounting a tire — but with a little patience, you can do it without special tools.
- Choose correct size: Verify your tire size before you buy
- Prepare the rim: Clean bead and rim so the insert seats smoothly
- Insert first: Place the armour evenly around the rim bed
- Install tube/tire: Fit tire over the insert and tube, then inflate slowly
- Check seating: Make sure the insert and tire bead are even around the rim
If you run tubeless, you may need to adjust bead seating and sealant; some riders prefer to install armour before converting to tubeless.
Performance — What to Expect
The biggest win from a tire insert is fewer flats. Riders who install Armour often report:
- Fewer pinch flats: The dense layer prevents tube squeezing against rim impact
- Sharp object defense: Thorns and glass are less likely to reach the tube
- Smoother ride: Inserts can act like a mini suspension layer inside your tire
Keep in mind: no system is 100% — incredibly sharp or high-force hits can still penetrate — but the risk is significantly reduced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tire inserts work with tubeless setups?
Yes — most riders use armour inside tubeless tires with sealant. The insert helps support the tire and can reduce bead seating issues.
Will it slow me down?
Inserts add some weight, but for commuting, touring, and rough terrain rides, the trade-off in flat prevention and comfort often outweighs the small weight penalty.
How do I pick the right size?
Match the insert size to your tire width (e.g., 700x28–700x35). Check your tire sidewall markings or manufacturer specs to confirm.
Do I still need sealant?
If you’re running tubeless, yes — sealant helps stop small holes fast. The insert adds another layer of defense, not a replacement for proper tubeless sealing.
Who The Tannus Armour Is Best For
- Commuters: Urban riders dealing with glass, nails, and debris
- Gravel & adventure riders: Routes with unpredictable terrain
- Mountain bikers: Rough trails with thorns, rocks, and roots
- Tourers: Long rides where flats are costly in time and effort
If you’re tired of changing flats and want more confidence on every ride, tyre armour is worth considering.
Bottom Line
The Tannus Armour Tire Insert delivers real puncture resistance and a smoother ride by placing a dense protective layer between your tire and tube. It’s an excellent upgrade for commuters and off-road riders alike — improving reliability while reducing roadside hassles.
View Tannus Armour Tire Insert on Amazon