Tyre Pressure & Selection
The right pressure transforms your ride — too high and you bounce off every crack, too low and you get pinch flats and sluggish handling. Check before every ride. It takes 30 seconds.
Road bikes: 80-100 PSI typical. The SE Lager on 700x28c tyres: try 85-95 PSI. Heavier riders go higher.
The correct range is printed on the tyre sidewall. Stay within it.
Get a track pump (floor pump) with a pressure gauge for home use. Mini pumps are for roadside emergencies, not daily inflation.
Tyres lose pressure naturally — even without a puncture, expect to lose 10-15 PSI per week on road tyres.
Check tyre pressure before every ride using a pump with a gauge
Inflate to the recommended range on the tyre sidewall
For road/fixie: 80-100 PSI depending on tyre width and rider weight
For hybrid: 50-70 PSI typically
Squeeze test: the tyre should feel firm but give slightly under strong thumb pressure
Inspect tyres for cuts, embedded glass, worn tread, or sidewall damage
Replace tyres when the centre tread is visibly worn flat or you can see the casing threads
Consider tyre upgrade: Schwalbe Marathon Plus are near-puncture-proof for commuting
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