Questions Answered: What Bicycle Pump is Best For Me?

Questions Answered: What Bicycle Pump is Best For Me?

GET PUMPED! YOUR BIKE PUMP 101 GUIDE IS HERE!

Schrader? Presta? Rolling Resistance? You have questions. Eddie has answers.

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1. Types of Bike Valves

The video first explains the two major types of bike valves:

  • Schrader Valve:
    • Commonly found on cars and leisure bikes.
    • Features an internal spring that keeps the valve closed.
    • Convenient for inflation at gas stations.
  • Presta Valve:
    • Thinner and commonly used on high-performance bikes.
    • Must be manually opened to inflate.
    • Lighter and requires a smaller rim hole, enhancing wheel strength.

2. Floor Pumps for Home Use

The most critical pump for regular bike maintenance is a floor pump, as it allows for easy and accurate tire inflation at home. Key features to consider:

  • Compatibility with valve types (some pumps have dual heads or adapters).
  • A pressure gauge for precise inflation.
  • High volume and efficiency, making it the best option for routine tire pressure maintenance.

3. Portable Pumps for On-the-Go Repairs

For emergency repairs, portable pumps or compressed air canisters are recommended:

  • Small-volume portable pumps: Best for road bikes with high pressure, low volume tires.
  • Larger-volume portable pumps: More suitable for mountain bike tires, which require more air volume.
  • Compressed air (CO2 inflators): A quick, one-time solution for emergencies.

4. Shock Pumps for Suspension Systems

  • Designed for filling air shocks and suspension forks.
  • Low volume, high pressure (up to 300 PSI).
  • Not recommended for inflating bike tires.

5. Determining Proper Tire Pressure

  • The correct PSI for a tire is marked on the sidewall of the tire. It might be hard to see but it is always present.
  • Proper pressure ensures optimal grip, comfort, and reduced risk of flats.

6. Inflation Tips and Tricks

  • If a tire is extremely flat, the valve can push back into the rim, making inflation difficult.
  • A useful trick is to pinch the tire while inflating to stabilize the valve.