There are a few visual cues and characteristics you can look for to determine if a bike has tubeless tires or tube-type tires without removing the wheel cover or hub. Here are some indicators:
Valve Stem: Check the valve stem on the inner side of the wheel. Tubeless tires typically have a removable valve stem that is longer and has a nut threaded onto it. The nut helps secure the valve stem to the rim, ensuring an airtight seal. In contrast, tube-type tires usually have a shorter, stubbier valve stem with no nut.
Sidewall Markings: Inspect the sidewall of the tire for any specific markings. Some tubeless tires have "TL" (Tubeless) or "UST" (Universal System Tubeless) printed on the sidewall, indicating that they are designed for tubeless setups. However, not all tubeless tires may have these markings, so this method may not be foolproof.
Tubeless-Ready Rims: Look for any indications that the rims are tubeless-ready. Tubeless-ready rims often have specific features, such as a reinforced bead lock or a pronounced center channel, which facilitate a secure tubeless tire installation. If the rim has these features, it's more likely that the bike is equipped with tubeless tires.
Tread Pattern: Consider the tread pattern of the tire. While this is not a definitive indicator, tubeless tires generally have a more pronounced and aggressive tread pattern compared to tube-type tires. However, there can be exceptions, so this method should be used in conjunction with other indicators.
It's important to note that these methods can provide reasonable assumptions but are not always accurate. To be completely certain about the tire type, it is best to consult the bike's specifications, the manufacturer's documentation, or contact the bike shop or the manufacturer directly for confirmation.