If you’re an avid cyclist, then you know that having properly inflated tires is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride.
But how do you know when your bike tires need air? Here are some simple tips to help you determine if it’s time to top up the air pressure in your bicycle tires.
Knowing when it’s time to add more air can save you from a flat tire or other damage caused by under-inflation. So, let’s get started!
Signs your Bike Tire Pressure is Too Low
The biggest indication that your bike tire pressure is too low is if you notice the tires beginning to sag when fully loaded.
A sagging tire simply means there isn’t enough air in it to support the weight of rider and any equipment on board.
Additionally, if your tires are visibly bulging or “squishing”, it’s a surefire sign that they are badly under-inflated.
Another indication of low tire pressure is if you feel your bike rolling and bouncing more than usual while riding on flat surfaces.
Additionally, you may find yourself having to pedal harder than normal as the bike tires struggle to get traction on the ground below. If you’re feeling any of these symptoms, it’s definitely time to top up the air pressure in your bicycle tires.
Checking Your Tire Pressure
If you suspect that your bike tire pressure is too low, the best way to check and confirm this is with a tire pressure gauge.
These are relatively cheap and easy to use, and should provide an accurate reading of the pressure inside your bike tires.
If you find that the tire pressure is lower than recommended, then it’s time to add air.
Inflating Bike Tires
Once you’ve confirmed that your bike tires need more air, the next step is to add it. This is usually done using an air pump.
In some cases, you may need to use a specific type of pump for your bike tires.
If you’re unsure which kind of pump to get, consult with a local bike shop and they should be able to help you out.
Ways to Check Air in the Bike Tires
Without a Tire Pressure Gauge
You may not always have a tire pressure gauge handy. If that’s the case, there are still some ways you can check if your bike tires need more air without one.
One method is to simply squeeze the tire with your hand. If it feels hard and doesn’t give when squeezed, then it likely has enough air in it.
On the other hand, if you can squeeze the tire easily and it feels soft or spongy, then chances are that it needs more air.
It’s also a good idea to periodically inspect your bike tires for any visible signs of damage, like cuts or bulges.
If you notice these, it’s likely that the tire pressure is too low and should be topped up.
With a Tire Pressure Gauge
If you’re lucky enough to have a tire pressure gauge, then checking the air in your bike tires is easy.
Simply remove the valve cap and attach the gauge to it. You should get a reading of how much air is currently inside the tire.
Refer to your bike manufacturer’s manual for information about what level of air pressure is best for your particular bike.
How Often should you Check Bike Tire Pressure?
Ideally, you should be checking your bike tire pressure at least once a week. This will help to ensure that they are always properly inflated and can help you avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Additionally, make sure to check your bike tires every time before going on a long ride as this will give you peace of mind knowing that they are properly inflated for the journey ahead.
How Often should you have to Air Up a Bike Tire?
It’s normal for bike tires to lose air pressure over time, so you may find yourself having to top them up every now and then.
The frequency of this will depend on your riding habits and the type of tires you have.
Generally speaking, it is a good idea to check and add more air when needed in order to ensure optimal performance from your bike tires.
What Happens if I Add Too Much Air?
It’s possible to add too much air to a bicycle tire, which can lead to the tire becoming over-inflated.
This can cause damage to the tire and even cause it to burst while riding.
To avoid this, always make sure you check your bike’s manual for the correct recommended pressure levels and never exceed them when adding air.
What Happens if you Keep Riding with Low Tire Pressure?
Low tire pressure can have a number of adverse effects on the performance of your bike.
As the pressure drops, so does the amount of traction you’ll get from your tires which can cause them to slip and slide more easily.
It can also lead to increased wear and tear on your tires as well as making it harder for you to pedal. For these reasons, it is important to keep your bike tires properly inflated at all times.
Conclusion
Having the right tire pressure in your bike tires is essential for ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
A tire pressure gauge can help you easily check if your bike tires need more air, but you should also inspect them periodically for any signs of damage.
By following these tips and regularly checking your tire pressure, you can ensure that you always have optimal performance from your bike tires.
