How do I optimally inflate my bicycle tyre?

If the tyre loses air, it must be pumped up again. Checking the tyre pressure and inflating the tyre is therefore one of the simplest and most frequent maintenance tasks to be carried out on a bicycle.

Even cycling professionals sometimes ask themselves the question: What tyre pressure do I need? Which valve do I have again? Do I need an adapter? That’s why we have summarised some tips for you here.

How much pressure do I need on my bike?

• Road bike (25 – 28 mm tyre width): approx. 6 – 7.5 bar
• Mountainbike (55 – 60 mm tyre width): approx. 2 – 3.5 bar
• Touring or city bike (35 – 50 mm tyre width): 3 – 4.5 bar

In 6 steps to a perfectly inflated bicycle tyre

1.

Determine the right valve

There are 3 different valves: Sclaverand, Dunlop and Schrader valves. For each of these valves there is a suitable pump or pump head.

1.

2.

Remove valve cap

Each valve should have a valve cap. Unscrew it and attach the pump to the valve. In the case of Sclaverand valves, the valve head or knurled nut must first be turned counterclockwise before it can take in air.

2.

3.

Adjusting the pump

If the pump has a lever, this should be closed or anchored after the pump head has been placed on the valve.

3.

4.

Universal pump

Universal pumps often have 2 attachments. The thin one is for Sclaverand and Dunlop valves and the thicker one for Schrader valves.

4.

5.

Pumping air into the tyre

Now start pumping and check with your hand whether the tyre holds the air. Depending on the tyre and the type of bike, you need a different tyre pressure. It is best to pump until the tyre is hard but can still be pressed in a little with your hand.

5.

6.

Close the valve cap

After pumping, you should close the valve again with the cap.

6.

Related articles:

Which bicycle valves are available? How do I determine the correct tyre pressure? How do I find the right bicycle inner tube? What is the maximum tyre width possible on my bike? How do I adjust my suspension fork correctly? Which MTB wheel size is the right one? Which is the right MTB tyre? Which type of tyre for my touring bike?