Tire pumps are one of the most important bike accessories every cyclist should have. Your bicycle tires must be properly inflated for both safety and performance.
What are the best bike tire pumps?
The best bicycle pumps are easy and convenient to use. A good pump will efficiently and accurately inflate your tires. There are a variety of styles available so choosing the best pump for your bike comes down to preferences and your specific cycling activities. If you are a long-distance cyclist, then a portable bike air pump is a great option. On a long bike ride, it’s important to have a pump on hand, in case your tires start to deflate during the ride. There are a variety of miniature pumps that attach directly to a bike.
Full-sized foot pumps are popular options for bike commuters, or casual cyclists who can manage their tires and bike maintenance in between rides. There are basic air pumps that you can operate with a foot pedal so that the tire feels sufficiently firm. Pumps with analog or digital gauges are also very popular as they provide an actual measurement of the air in the tires. You should also choose a bike pump based on the type of valve your tires have. There are pumps compatible with multiple valve types including Schraeder, Dunlop and the popular Presta valves, available at Canadian Tire.
How often should I check my bike tires for air?
Much like choosing a pump, how often you need to check your tires’ air pressure is determined by your type of bicycle and cycling habits. Depending on your bike you may have to check as frequently as once a week. Some cyclists even check their bike tires before every ride. Also, your type of bike can determine the minimum amount of air pressure required for a safe ride. Ultimately, it’s important to research your specific bicycle and check the tire pressure regularly until you are confident with their capacities.
Tire pumps are one of the most important bike accessories every cyclist should have. Your bicycle tires must be properly inflated for both safety and performance.
How do I check the air in my bike tires?
The most accurate method of checking the air in your tires is by measuring it using a gauge. It is possible however, to check air pressure based on the feel of the tires. Squeezing the tires by hand is an age-old method of checking inflation. The amount of resistance the tires give you when you squeeze them is a pretty accurate indicator of their air pressure. You can also sit on the bike and examine the appearance of the tires with weight on them. With this method you are visually checking how the shape of the tires change.
Explore Canadian Tire’s wide range of bike electronics, bike bags & baskets, and more accessories for cyclists of all levels.
The most accurate method of checking the air in your tires is by measuring it using a gauge. It is possible however, to check air pressure based on the feel of the tires. Squeezing the tires by hand is an age-old method of checking inflation. The amount of resistance the tires give you when you squeeze them is a pretty accurate indicator of their air pressure. You can also sit on the bike and examine the appearance of the tires with weight on them. With this method you are visually checking how the shape of the tires change.
Explore Canadian Tire’s wide range of bike electronics, bike bags & baskets, and more accessories for cyclists of all levels.
