Effetto Mariposa Caffelatex tubeless conversion kit

Effetto Mariposa Caffe’ latex tubeless conversion kit is in effect two products in one- a clever concept converting standard wire-on rims to the latest generation of tubeless tyres while the sealant can also be employed to combat punctures in traditional tubs and standard tubes with removable valve cores. We tried it in the latter to good effect but careful, methodical installation is a must. Left standing-say overnight, the solution readily reverts to liquid form, resulting in a disconcerting imbalance for the first few pedal strokes, returning to normal once the foaming consistency recovers.

That said, those seeking the benefits of tubeless while enjoying some welcome sidewall and pinch-flat respite won’t be disappointed, although don’t forgo the patch kit in wired on contexts as the liquid latex doesn't always cure fast enough, resulting in a very sticky mess. In my opinion, Kevlar belted tyres/heavy duty tubes remain the most reliable options for commuters and tourists.

The kit comprises several components- 250 ml Caffé’latex sealant, injector pump, two rolls of tubeless tape, two tubeless valves and valve key. Strip the donor wheel(s) of tyre(s), tube(s), existing rim tape and be sure to purge any traces of impacted dirt, grease or adhesive. The instructions recommend judicious filing of protruding spoke heads but in practice the rim tape’s hardy enough to counteract all but the most spiteful.

Start the tape five millimetres proud of the valve hole, working steadily around the rim, seating carefully and overlapping at the valve before piercing in preparation for the tubeless valve stem. While effective, the adhesive backing lacked the expected tenacity. So we took the belt and braces approach, remounting the Univega’s wired on tyre and tube, inflating to their maximum and leaving everything in situ overnight. Morning came and satisfied of proper adhesion, the dedicated tubeless rubber then followed.

Sealant is injected by opening the valve core at 9’oclock adding between thirty and 50ml for conventional road and mtb hoops (10/20 seems adequate in traditional inner tubes) before spinning to achieve even penetration. Refit the valve core, inflate and take a relaxed ten-minute ride around the block to fully stabilise the solution (and in a tubeless context, confirm everything’s airtight).

Taking the slow and steady philosophy paid off revealing no obvious pressure loss, although the solution’s recurrent and mildly irritating characteristic is very apparent when the bike is left standing for several hours/overnight. Experimenting with pressures hasn’t revealed any nasty or unpredictable handling quirks, nor pinch flats at low pressures.

The warm, ambient test period suggests it seals smaller holes before their impact is felt and is particularly effective against sidewall punctures. However, in keeping with the genre, the solution eventually dries out, negating any puncture preventative qualities, although this doesn’t affect air retention.

Verdict

Clever, dependable conversion kit but requires careful fitting.