How much do I pump my tires up? Too often I see people riding with too little air in their tires. This increases drag, instability and flat occurrence. Putting air into a tire creates air pressure. The appropriate quantity of pressure depends on two things: rim construction and tire construction. Different types of bikes employ different types of rims and tires. This second part of the two part series will provide a casual overview of how much air you should put into different types of bikes. Always refer to your bikes owners manuals and note the pressure indicated on the side of your tire before going at it.
Type 1: Hybrid
This is the most common type of bike sold today. Hybrids have a 1 to 1 1/2 inch wide tires and usually require between 70 - 100 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Type 2: Mountain Bike
The mountain bike is a little trickier as their are two types of tires and rims now used on mountain bikes. The average person is probably still using a tube tire and this tire when used off-road should have between 40 and 50 psi on rough terrain to avoid pinch flats. The more serious enthusiasts and racers are probably using a tubless tire and these can run significantly less pressure, usually between 25 and 35 psi.
Type 3: Road Bike
Road bikes require incredibly high tire pressure. Because the tires are usually around 1"with, put 90 to 120 psi into these tires.
Type 4: BMX Bike
Not to be confused with kids bikes, BMX bikes are used for stunts and their tire pressure can vary greatly depending on the rider and the stunts performed. BMX racers and dirt jumpers usually have around 50 - 70 psi. Park riders and flatland can have tires that are between 60 and 100 psi.
Type 5: Beach Cruiser or Classic Bike
The beach cruiser uses between 30 and 40 psi.
Type 6: The Three Speed
The three speed is difficult because it uses thin tires, but the steel rims cannot hold that much pressure. I usually put exactly 60psi in my tires for each ride.
I hope this helps when the question arises concerning pumping it up. Always be safe and follow instructions in your owners manual.
words and photos by Ray Heinsman
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That's a good arm workout, thanks for posting the tidbit.
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