Do you ever wonder how your tires’ health impacts your day-to-day bike rides? How pumping air into a bicycle tire increases pressure?
Thus, we came up with this article to explain how pumping air into a bicycle tire increases the pressure within the tire. You will learn that air pumped into the tire causes collision of particles inside, resulting in tire pressure. The more air pumped into the tire, the bigger the possibility of an increased pressure.
For more details, read this guide below.
Let me explain to you how pumping air into the bicycle increases pressure as simple as I can. Air pumped in the tires causes the pressure to increase as more gas molecules are cramped in the walls.
The collision of particles inside the tire walls cause the pressure exerted by the enclosed gas. As the number of air particles increases the number of collisions, the pressure within the tire increases.
The volume of the bicycle tire to increase as the molecules collide with each other at a faster rate. More collision means higher tire pressure. Once you have reached the optimum amount of pressure, the tire becomes stiff, which, in turn, makes it usable for your ride.
How much air should be pumped into the tire depends on the declared pressure rating of the tire. Too little pressure means the tire cannot hold its shape, while too much pressure can cause it to explode.
The Pound Per Square Inch or PSI refers to the minimum amount of air pressure needed to ensure that your tire can support your bike at its maximum load. I highly recommend checking your tires at least once a month because tires lose approximately 1 PSI of tire pressure monthly.
The minimum and maximum PSI is usually indicated on the side of your bike tire. Confirm that you go by the manufacturer’s recommended specifications to determine the optimum PSI for your tire.
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Different Types of Bicycle Air Pump
Now that we’ve touched on why pumping air into your tire is important, let me introduce you to the main types of bike pump—the floor and the hand pumps. Choosing the best pump for your tire can save you from the hassle of incessant repairs in the long run.
- Floor Pump – has higher capacity and can pump bike tires to a maximum of 160 PSI; works well with a Presta valve
- Hand Pump – a portable and handy option; it is best to keep one with you during rides in case of emergency
How to Properly Pump Air Into a Bicycle Tire
Step 1: Know your valve
The two most common tube valves are the Schrader and Presta valves. Schrader is wider and flat on the end, while a Presta valve is narrower with a locking nut at the top. An easy way to tell them apart is to remember that a Presta valve needs to be pressed to let air out.
Step 2: Properly attach the pump
As there are a variety of pumps, make sure to carefully follow the indicated directions in your manual. Many modern pumps feature a versatile head that fits both Presta and Shrader valves. What you need to do is firmly attach the pump on the valve and start pumping.
Step 3: Inflate the tire
Use the gauge on the pump to guide you, pump the tubs slowly and ensure that you have acquired optimal pressure. Once you have achieved this, simply pull the pump head off and tighten the locking nut before replacing the valve cap. For more details guide, please check out this post or watch the video below.
Conclusion
Tire health is key to a safe, smooth, and hassle-free ride. Regular bike rides will cause your tires to deteriorate, so you must make it a habit to regularly monitor if they have ample amount of pressure. Take care of your tire frequently, in case the tire going to be flat, check out our guides to fixing or removing and changing it.
To reiterate, pumping air into bicycle tires increases the pressure because of the collision of particles in the gas walls as air molecules get more cramped.
If this article has helped you solve your long-time curiosity about tire pressure, let us know in the comments, and share this article to your friends!
“I ride my bike to work for years, but is that enough? Our carelessness towards our surroundings has taken a toll on the environment. And now, everyone is responsible for changes; even the most minor contribution is counted. With this hope and spirit, I started with my partner to establish Biketoworkday to help more individuals commute to their work sites on their bikes.”