Bicycle tires are one of the most important systems on your bicycle, but all too often they are neglected. Bike tire problems can cause inconsistent riding that may lead to accidents that hurt you and your bicycle. Stay safe when riding your bike by understanding how to diagnose and treat basic tire problems.
Under-inflation
Under-inflating tires is a common mistake and can lead to dangerous riding. An under-inflated tire will press more of the tire's surface onto the road, wearing down the sidewalls and creating a "wobbly." Under-inflated tires are easier to diagnose that over-inflated tires because they will appear to bulge where they meet the ground. An under-inflated tire is also diagnosed by looking at the wear pattern on the tire. If the edges of the tire are more worn than the center, your tires need more air.
Over-inflation
Over-inflated tires are harder to diagnose but just as dangerous. Over-inflated tires have less contact with the road than they should, making your bike less stable, especially when braking. Over-inflation is diagnosed by looking at the wear pattern on the tire. If only the middle portion of your tire is worn down, your tire is over-inflated. All tires have tread patterns that are distinguished from their smooth sidewalls. The entire tread pattern should show signs of even wear.
Punctures
If a bicycle tire is punctured, it can cause several problems. If you ride tubeless wheels, then a punctured tire will lose air and go flat. If you have tubes in your tires, the puncture may reach through the tire and puncture the tube, also resulting in a flat. But even if the puncture does not reach your tube, the hole will allow moisture and debris into your tire, which will wear down the tire's seal and hurt your wheel rims.
Considerations
You should check your tire's condition every time before you ride. Keep a bicycle pump and a tire gauge with you to adjust pressure as needed. Remember that fluctuations in air temperature can increase or decrease the pressure in your tires. Use the information printed on the sidewall of you tires to determine proper pressure. If you must replace your tire, get the correct diameter and width for your wheel size. If you are unsure about the size, take the entire wheel into a professional bike store for evaluation.
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