Tire Pressure: What’s the Big Issue?

Tire Pressure

If you’re a cyclist who’s been working with the same bike for a while, you’ve probably run into a familiar situation: you want to enjoy a nice relaxing bit of exercise on your bike but realize that you won’t get anywhere because one your tires has gone flat, losing its tight pressure that gives it such a solid handle on the road. For advanced bikers, you’ve already figures this out. But what if you’re just starting out? Here’s how to approach tire pressure so that you know what to do – every time.

What’s PSI?

Pressure per square inch is a great indicator of the pressure you’re working with in your tire, and if you’re able to measure it, chances are that you’ve noticed something in the range of about 100 PSI has worked for you. Depending on your individual weight and taste, you will want to fluctuate this number up or down around 20 PSI, but this is typically the area where you’ll see tire pressure.

Determining your ideal PSI will depend on a number of factors, including the aforementioned issues of wait and individual preferences. The heavier you are, the more pressure you’ll need for a smooth and comfortable ride. If you’re going for speed, there’s a good chance you want to keep the pressure high – high pressure firms up the tire and exposes less of it to the ground. You sacrifice a bit of grip for less contact space. This isn’t always recommended, but for someone who’s handled a bike plenty of times, you should be able to handle a higher PSI.

In order to find the PSI of your choice, you can either purchase your own bike pump and meter or you can find a gas station that provides one for free outdoors. Many gas stations offer this for free as an effort to draw in cyclists who otherwise would pass by the station without so much as a look.

Don’t see the tire gauge?

Go ahead and ask for one inside. Many gas stations will have one handy, but only for people who come inside – this can sometimes be another way to get you to shop and perhaps make a purchase indoors.

Measuring your tire pressure frequently will help you avoid any mishaps – you won’t be surprised by any sudden pressure drops. In order to refill the pressure, make sure to use the available bicycle pump. If pressure continues to drop faster than it should, it’s time to consider a new tire. Remember: your tires are where the rubber meets the road, so take good care of yours.

Photo Credits: ThenAndAgain

Originally posted 2009-05-20 05:23:27.

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