How to Fill Road Bike Tires

Learn how to fill road bike tires that use the Presta valve.

Bicycle tires are sold with two different types of fill valve. Most bicycles come with the standard Schrader-style valve that is also used for automobile tires. Road bike tires generally have the thinner Presta valves because of their small size and light weight. You must use an air pump that is designed for this type of valve or purchase a Presta-to-Schrader adapter to convert the pumps you will find at gas stations and other public places.

Things You'll Need

• Air pump
• Presta valve adapter (if needed)

Instructions

1. Unscrew the plastic cap that covers the Presta valve on your bike tube. Some tubes do not have a cap leaving the valve exposed. Open the valve by loosening the nut at the tip. The valve will open wider as you rotate the nut counterclockwise.

2. Place the nozzle of your air pump onto the tip of the valve and flip the lever down to lock it in place. Attach your adapter to the nozzle if you are using a Schrader-style air pump. Follow the instructions on the pump to inflate the tire to your desired air pressure. The recommended pressure is usually listed on the sidewall of the tire.

3. Lift the lever and remove the pump's nozzle when you are finished inflating the tube. Tighten the nut to close the valve of your bike tube. Replace the plastic cap, if applicable to your tube.

References

• Bicycle Tutor: How to Use a Presta Valve Adapter

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish