Stan’s unveiled the Dual Action Repair for Tubeless (DART) Tool in 2019, ushering in the first repair plug designed specifically for tubeless bicycle tires, rather than a scaled-down version of what was available in the automotive and motorcycle world. Subsequent refinements made way for the tool’s rerelease as the Original DART Tool in 2025, introducing a stainless steel insertion rod accompanied by an improved DART developed through the first tool’s lifespan.By using a flexible, laser-cut material, the DART conforms to nonuniform puncture shapes caused by the jagged and sharp edges of debris and obstacles found on trails, roads, and paths. Treated with a reactive solution, the DART bonds with liquid sealant on the inside of a tubeless tire to form both a chemical and mechanical seal to permanently bond a puncture too large for tubeless sealant to repair on its own.Complete with two DARTs, the tool weighs only 15-grams and fits comfortably in any small pack pocket. For added convenience, the base of the molded plastic tool body features a Presta valve core remover to aid in-the-field sealant topoffs with either a 60ml or 120ml bottle of Stan’s Original Tubeless Sealant. New for 2025: updated stainless steel insertion rod Includes two DARTs, refills sold separately Repairs punctures and slices too large for sealant alone to seal Woven, laser-cut material easily conforms to nonuniform punctures shapes Base of tool features molded Presta core tool for sealant top-offs Clear caps keep DARTs clean and unthread for quick use Troubleshooting Below is a guide to help you master the tool and troubleshoot the most common "gotchas." 1. Preparation: Why Sealant Matters The DART is not a standard "bacon strip." It is chemically treated to react specifically with latex-based sealants (like Stan’s) to form an airtight scab. Fresh Sealant: If your sealant is dried up, the DART cannot bond. New tires absorb sealant quickly, so we recommend checking levels and topping off every 3–6 months. The 5mm Threshold: The DART is designed for punctures larger than 5mm. If a smaller hole isn't sealing, you generally don't need a DART—you likely just need more liquid sealant in the tire. Built-in Valve Tool: The DART handle features an integrated valve core remover. Use this to quickly add more sealant if you lost a significant amount during the puncture. 2. How to Use the DART Tool Locate & Clear: Find the puncture and clear away any glass, thorns, or debris. Align & Push: Align the DART tip straight with the hole. Push firmly until the plastic body of the tool makes contact with the tire tread. The barbed tip must pass completely through the casing. The "6 O'Clock Pool": Once inserted, immediately rotate the wheel so the DART is at the 6 o'clock position (bottom). This submerges the DART's fabric "feathers" in liquid sealant, triggering the chemical reaction. Do Not Trim: Unlike traditional rubber plugs, do not cut the excess material. The remaining fabric is ultra-soft and will wear away naturally as you ride without affecting traction or feel. 3. Troubleshooting Common Issues Puncture is too small to enter: The DART tip needs clearance to pass through. Ream the hole slightly first. Tire is "Pancake" flat: Without internal air pressure, the casing just squashes. Pinch the tire tread between your fingers and pull outward to create a firm backing surface. High Pressure (Road / Gravel): Pressures over 45 PSI can push liquid out too fast. Bleed off some air pressure to let the sealant react and pack into the DART fabric. DART Tip Bends or Snaps: Side-loading during insertion can snap plastic tips. Ensure you are pushing straight into the tire without twisting the tool. Sealant won't stop leaking: For wide slices or gashes, you can "stack" DARTs by inserting a second feather right next to the first one to fill the void. A Quick Note on CO2:If you use a CO2 cartridge for a quick roadside inflation, keep in mind that CO2 can degrade liquid latex over time. Once you get home, we recommend letting the CO2 out and reinflating with regular floor pump air to preserve your sealant's lifespan. We hope this helps you get back out there with total confidence. We want you spending your time on the pedals, not on the side of the trail!
