How to Pump a Professional Road Bike Tire

When using a road bike, it is important to keep the tires pumped. Low tires make it harder to pedal and gain momentum, which may be dangerous on city streets. Keeping your tires pumped will help prevent this issue; however you will need to watch just how much air you put into the tire, because when a tire is overinflated it can pop, which may cause injuries or damage to the bike.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Road bike
Bike pump

Step 1

Look through the owners manual of your bike for the appropriate tire pressure. If you are not sure you may need to take the bike into a local bike shop. They should be able to figure out the optimal tire pressure for your bike.

Step 2

Remove the cap that covers the air valve on the inside of the bike wheel.

Step 3

Place the end of the pump's tube over the air valve. You will begin to hear air escape. Press down on the valve lock, which is on the end of the air hose. This will lock the hose into place and prevent more air from escaping.

Make sure you have the correct pump for the valve. There are two common types of valves, Presta (narrow) and Schrader (wider and identical to car tire valves). Some pumps are universal, but some only fit one type of valve.

Step 4

Begin pumping the air pump. Keep your eye on the air pressure display. Stop once you reach the recommended pressure. Unlock the house and remove it from the valve. Replace the valve cap.

Step 5

Repeat the process with the other bike tire.

Resources

Alameda Bicycle: Air Pump Options

Article Written By Greyson Ferguson

Greyson Ferguson is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in film and television. He currently resides in Lansing, Michigan where he works on independent film projects and writes for numerous publications. Ferguson primarily focuses on computer and electronic articles. Greyson produces TheDailyUpbeat.com, focusing on only upbeat news stories with daily updates.

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