Keeping your bike's tires properly inflated is essential. Underinflated tires will lead to premature wear and will make you work harder while pedaling. It could also lead to a flat and could leave you walking home instead of biking home. Overinflated tires will provide a rough and uncomfortable ride. It is easy to properly inflate your tires and requires a only few tools that you may have in your garage. It is best to check your tires before you go on a bike ride, especially if you haven't been on your bicycle in a while.
Inflate your Tires
Step 1
Find your tire's recommended inflation pressure. Most tires have the maximum pressure printed on the sidewall. Typically this pressure is given in psi, which stands for pounds per square inch, and ranges from about 35 to 48 psi.
Step 2
Measure the tire's pressure with the pressure gauge. If is low, the tire needs air. If it is too high, use the back end of the pressure gauge to let out some air.
Step 3
Attach the pump to the tire's valve and begin pumping. A good rule of thumb is that two pumps roughly equals 1 psi. Inflate the tire and measure it with the pressure gauge until it is at the recommended maximum. The back tire should be inflated about 10 percent more than the front tire because the back tire bears more weight than the front tire. The back tire can be inflated past the recommended pressure because manufacturers leave some leeway for the extra air.
Step 4
Take you bike for a spin to determine if the ride is smooth. Look for problems like bounciness (overinflation) or difficult pedaling on a smooth surfaces (underinflation).
Tips and Warnings
- Purchase a tire pump with a built-in pressure gauge.
- Riding your bike with a flat tire will damage the rim and you will have to replace the wheel.
Things You'll Need
- Bicycle pump
- Tire pressure gauge
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