How to Inflate Road Bike Tires

Proper tire pressure increases the longevity of the tire.

Tires provide a combination of traction and shock absorption. A lack of air pressure, therefore, compromises not only the tire's ability to perform, but can also put the cyclist at risk. Each road bike tire includes a recommended air pressure. A valve -- part of the tire's inner tube -- allows air to be pumped into the tire.

Things You'll Need

• Valve adapter (as needed)
• Air pump with pressure gauge

Instructions

1. Locate the road bike tire's valve, standing upright along the inside diameter of the rim. Remove the cap from the valve.

2. Determine the type of valve in front of you. Road bikes contain either a Presta or Schrader valve. The Presta valve has a threaded knob at the tip. The Schrader valve has no such knob.

3. Unscrew the Presta valve knob until it stops. A Schrader valve does not require this step.

4. Thread the knurled end of the valve adapter onto the Presta valve. A Schrader valve does not require this step.

5. Lock the pump head onto the valve. Look along the side of the tire to locate the recommended tire pressure. This will be printed either on the tire sidewall or molded into the side of the tire casing.

6. Inflate the road bike tire to at least the minimum recommended tire pressure.

7. Remove the pump head from the valve. For Presta valves, remove the adapter and screw the knob down at the end of the valve to seal the valve.

8. Replace the valve cap.

Tips & Warnings

• Check road bike tires after every ride. Remove any debris lodged in the tire tread, using either tweezers or the point of a Phillips screwdriver.

References

• Michelin Bicycle USA: The Importance of Air Pressure
• Matthews Bicycles: Presta Valve Adapter Lesson
• Perry Rubber Bike Shop: How to Inflate a Tire