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WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Kit - new tubeless tool
In collaboration with Bib Creative, a manufacturer of tubeless tools, WTB has developed a new tyre plug tool. The special feature of the WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Kit are the reusable "Rocket" anchors. These anchors can be pre-loaded with tyre plugs and are immediately ready for use in the event of a puncture with a tubeless system. When loaded, the small tool weighs 55 grams and has a few clever details.
Are you still using inner tubes but would like to convert to tubeless? In our how-to guide, we explain step by step how the conversion can be optimised.
Rocket anchor to prevent the tyre plugs from tearing out
The Rocket anchors of the WTB TCS are available in two sizes, so that between 1 and 4 plugs can be used per repair, allowing different sizes of punctures to be sealed. When the hole is plugged, the anchor in which the plugs are located remains inside the tyre. Unlike conventional tyre plugs, which can tear out under high pressure or when cornering aggressively, the Rocket anchors are designed to hold the plug securely in place. This solution is designed to seal the puncture until the tyre is replaced. The Rocket anchor can then be removed and reused with new tyre plugs.
The Rocket anchors are designed to rotate once inserted into the tyre, physically preventing the plug from retracting through the tyre. Once an anchor has been pushed into the puncture, the anchor remains in place until it is removed from inside the tyre.
"Extra hand" for less air loss
The so-called "Extra Hand" is located on the back of the WTB TCS tool. A small cap with a tapered spike. The extra hand function is intended to temporarily seal the puncture so that the defect can be assessed in peace and the tyre plug kit can be prepared. It also serves as a reamer and helps to remove sticky residue from the tyre to ensure a smooth repair.
WTB TCS transport case - the Rocket Launcher
The Rocket Launcher serves as a launch base for the tyre plugs. The anchors loaded with the necessary plugs are placed on the small mandrel before being inserted into the tyre. The small anchor of the WTB TCS holds two plugs, while the large anchor holds four.
The rear part of the Rocket Launcher also serves as a handle and storage compartment for spare parts. It offers space for around 15 tyre plugs and a total of 6 Rocket anchors. A small opening in the housing shows the fill level and whether anchors are still available.
The caps of the Rocket Launcher are secured with an O-ring and can be removed quickly. The larger front cap also fits on the back, allowing the handle to be enlarged slightly.
WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Kit - Info and price
- Weight 55 grammes
- Contents 15 tyre plugs, 4 anchors (2x small, 2x large) included in the scope of delivery
- Internal storage space for 15 plugs and up to six anchors
- Ready to go Tool can be preloaded with up to 4 tyre plugs
- Extra hand for less air loss during repair
- Rocket anchor Reusable after tyre replacement
- Price 44,95 Euro >> available here
WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Refill Pack
The refill set contains fifteen 1.5 mm spare tyre plugs and four anchors (two small and two large), which are designed for use with the WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Pack. In an emergency, however, the anchors can also be used with most multitools. The small anchor holds up to two plugs and can be pushed into the tyre with a 2 mm hexagon. The large anchor holds up to four plugs and is compatible with either a 2 mm or 3 mm hexagon.
Price: 16,95 Euro
First impression - TCS Rocket Tire Plug Kit
Especially when the TCS is already loaded with tyre plugs in the bag, the tool is ready for use particularly quickly. Simply pull off the cap and press the tyre sausages together with the Rocket anchor into the puncture. Depending on the size, you may need a little more force to get the plugs into the tyre. When the awl is pulled out, the anchor remains stuck in the "wound" like the sting of a bee and should rotate as you continue riding, thus preventing the plugs from being ripped out again during rough riding.
Little air loss thanks to "Extra Hand"
If the TCS is not loaded and needs to be prepared first, the extra hand can help. To do this, pull off the rear cover and insert the mandrel into the tyre to seal it. If you are quick, there will be hardly any air loss at best. This works surprisingly well and the hole is sealed for the time being. However, the rear cap should be removed carefully, otherwise the Rocket anchors will tumble out of the storage compartment and quickly disappear into the botany, which is quite annoying.
Bombproof fit of the tyre plugs
Inserting the plugs into the Rocket anchors is a bit tedious, especially if you want to use several plugs at once. This is easier with open-top awls, as found on most tubeless tools. However, the anchors do seem to hold the plug firmly in the tyre. During our test rides, we didn't experience any problems and the plugs couldn't be pulled out of the tyre by hand either.
Conclusion on the WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Kit
In our eyes, the WTB TCS Rocket Tire Plug Kit is a good alternative to the existing systems on the market, with some clever features. The workmanship is high quality and in line with the price. There is hardly anything to criticise in terms of function. Top: the plugs fit tightly and the anchors can be reused after replacing the tyres.
Stefan Frey
Editor
