Crankbrothers Plug Mate: A Small Solution for a Big Problem with Tubeless Tire Plugs

The Plug Mate is a delightful, simple solution for the problem that plagues many tubeless tire repairs: Plug retention and insertion. And although I haven’t found myself in a position to test it on the trail, I have messed around with some spare tires and am blown away by how simple and effective it is. 

Crankbrothers Plug Mate
MSRP: $9.99 USD

• Compatible with most tire plug forks, including those found on Crankbrothers F-series, M-series, SOS, and Cigar tools.
• Requires less effort to install compared to alternative designs
• Locks in place, preventing blowouts
• Durable plastic material to prevent rim or tire damage
• Reusable design
• Available at Crankbrother.com

Plug Mate is designed to stay securely in place, even under harsh conditions such as big impacts, spirited cornering, or aggressive shralping and braking. Unlike standard plugs, which can slip or dislodge, the Plug Mate features a unique, side-to-side rotating design that firmly anchors in the tire. It installs easily with common tire plug forks, so there’s no need for special equipment. It offers a reliable, ride-ready setup, and at just $9.99 USD, it’s an affordable option that works great. What’s even better? It’s re-usable.

Kit Includes:

• 3 small (yellow) + 3 large (orange) reusable anchors 
• 10 thin (brown)+ 5 thick (black) tire plugs

This bullet-shaped Plug Mate anchor makes it easier to insert tubeless plugs into the puncture, and the kit includes two sizes to accommodate various plug dimensions, but it also makes the plugs more secure, and because they are plastic, they are less likely to damage the rim if you are really pushing the limits of your tire pressure.

The Plug Mate kit is designed as a semi-permanent solution to common issues found when tackling tubeless tire puncture – the plug getting pulled out. The anchor’s unique rotating and locking design prevents tubeless plugs from being ripped out or ejected from the tire casing. Plug Mate anchors are compatible with most common plug tool forks on the market, including the Crankbrothers F-series (F11/F16), M-series (M13/M20), SOS, and Cigar tools.