If the puncture is in the tread area, a plug can be applied. I have run a couple thousands of miles. Is it preferred? Probably not, depends on size of hole I suppose. As far as a tube, no problem. But here is the deal. If you dont patch the hole in the tire from puncture, it can/will pinch the tube and you could have a flat all over again. Once again if the hole is in the center part of carcass it is repairable, not sidewall. Plus putting a tube in a tire is a huge PIA. Thats one of the reasons I got away from the Vulcan 900. Spoke wheels and tubes.