Optimal pressure in bicycle tires

The optimal tyre pressure can vary considerably between different categories of bike. For example, a road bike tyre has a normal pressure of 6-8 bar, while a mountain bike tyre only 1.5-2.5 bar.

The narrower the tyre, the higher the pressure and the more frequent the monitoring. The maximum permissible pressure limit is always indicated on the sidewall of the tyre but is not optimal as it does not take into account important aspects such as rider weight, riding surface, riding habits, weather conditions and the technical characteristics of the bike.

Hard tyres will make it difficult to ride on sandy trails or soft gravel roads. On the other hand, very low tyre pressures increase the risk of damaging the inner tube with the wheel rim, especially when riding on rough or rocky road surfaces. In steeper corners, low-pressure tyres on a bicycle tend to "peel" off the wheel rim and this can result in a painful fall. However, on a very sandy path or dirt road, a lower tyre pressure can make the ride much easier as it will ensure that the tyre does not sink into the sand.

The main benefits of maintaining the maximum tyre pressure:

rolling resistance will be reduced;
reduced risk of damage to the inner tube from the wheel circumference;

Main negative aspects of maintaining maximum tyre pressure:

risk of tyre slippage;
increased rolling resistance when driving on soft surfaces;
poorer handling of the bicycle, especially on gravel roads;
lower ride comfort;

Optimum tyre pressure affects ride safety, comfort and performance, so check tyre pressure with a firm thumb pressure every time you start a new ride. Tyre pressure should provide the optimum compromise between rolling resistance and road grip.

Riepas spiediena pārbaude ar manometru

A spare tube, a compact hand pump with dual valve or a valve adapter shall be placed in the pannier of the bicycle to allow inflation at any service station from compressors designed for car tyres. Digital pressure gauges are recommended for accurate and convenient monitoring of tyre pressure.

Recommended pressures for the most popular types of bicycles:

road bikes - 6-8 bar;
mountain bikes - 2-3 bar;
children's bikes - 1.5-2 bar;
mountain bikes with tubeless tyres - 1.5-2.0 bar;

Tubeless tyres are the optimal solution for regular mountain (MTB) and gravel bikes as they provide stable tyre performance and high protection even at relatively low pressures.

Have a fun adventure!

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Optimal pressure in bicycle tires

Optimal pressure in bicycle tires

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