Bicycle tire gauges are available in a variety of styles, ranging from utility gauges to more elaborate gauges. While all tire gauges provide air pressure readings, some cyclists and tire installers prefer a certain type that suits a particular purpose. Browsing a selection at an accessory outlet or online, you'll notice bicycle tire gauges are manufactured in four basic types.
Pocket gauges are also referred to as service gauges, stick gauges or pencil gauges. You operate the gauge by pressing the recessed fitting at the circular head firmly on the valve stem of a tire. Air pressure inside the tire forces a numbered calibrator stick out at the opposite end of the gauge and you read the pressure where the stick aligns with the base of the gauge. A small metallic pin on the back of the head allows you to deflate a tire that might have more than the recommended pressure. Most pocket gauges have a chrome finish and a clip for your shirt pocket. Aside from the calibrator stick, pocket gauges have no moving parts.
Dial Gauges
As the name suggests, a dial gauge has a numbered dial with an indicator needle that provides tire pressure readings. Some dial gauges have a short rigid air stem at the base of the dial and others have a short flexible hose with a valve fitting. A rigid stem provides one-hand operation with tires mounted on cast wheels that don't have wire spokes. The flexible hose allows you to check tire pressure on wire spoke wheels where spacing is tight. A more elaborate dial gauge has a pressure release button that allows you to deflate tires to the recommended pressure. All dial gauges have a reset button that zeros the needle.
Digital
Digital tire gauges for bicycles resemble pocket gauges, and provide readings on a small LED display, according to the Web Bike World website. Some models have an offset head that allows you to check the tire pressure where space is tight on wire spokes. Other models have the traditional straight circular head at the top of the gauge and a deflation pin on the back of the head. A reset button allows you to zero the display. Certain manufacturers boast a lifetime battery and others provide information regarding replacement batteries. Most digital gauges come with a leather or soft composite case that clips on your belt or shirt pocket.
Inflators
Unlike the other gauges that provide a single reading at a time, inflator gauges for bicycle tires provide continuous readings as the tire is inflated. Many bike shops and tire stores fit inflator gauges to an air compressor hose to monitor tire inflation. Portable inflators have detachable compressed air bottles that provide an emergency air supply in remote locations. You have the option of choosing an inflator gauge for your shop with a dial or digital display. Many portable compressed air inflators have no gauge, so you might consider carrying your clip-on gauge for added measure.
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