Stans leads the way in tubeless tire sealant. Yes, maybe we all have our go-to brand we prefer, but in a pinch, we’re likely using Stans. We’re topping off with Stans. We’re fixing a flat and adding Stans at our buddy’s house because, well, that is what they have.
I, personally, use Stans. It works just fine, and, as I said, seems always to be around. But there is a problem with this, and most tire sealants, for that matter. All of the packaging and bottling can be wasteful.
Stans comes in the big 1,000ml jugs that look like motor oil. For an accurate measurement, you then need to pour the required amount of tire sealant into another container. I keep the smaller 60ml shooters and do one per tire, then reuse the same 60ml bottle.
For me, it works. For most of us, it works. Consider a bike shop, and it is likely quite a bit of waste. However, Stans recently introduced the OnTap, a 20-litre tubeless sealant “keg” available to participating dealers.
Rather than using several 1,000ml sealant jugs throughout the week, a bike shop can now use the Stans OnTap. One full OnTap keg provides enough sealant to set up the tires on 80 mountain bikes and 160 road bikes. Shops can buy sealant in bulk, leaving the 1,000ml jugs on the sales floor for customers to buy.
Stans claims a 75% reduction in plastic use thanks to OnTap.
OnTap is equipped with a motor to keep the sealant properly mixed. The mixer needs just 10 seconds before sealant can be poured into an injector or measuring cup.
So, a cool idea for a bike shop. But, here is the rub: have you checked the date? We’re getting close to that very first day of April, when the bike industry likes to be a bit silly. Now, if the OnTap keg were completely available today, I think I’d be a touch less suspicious.
However, I can’t help but notice that they are telling dealers that the product will be available on April 1st. So, what do you think? Good idea for a shop or a solid lead-up to an April Fool’s prank?
Currently, Stan’s has the OnTap listed for $1,500, but that is all the information they are providing.
