Biking is a very popular sport and pastime. But over the last few years biking has exploded in a big way. A growing number of people have taken up biking either as a form of exercise or a more environment-friendly way of commuting.
Bikers are very meticulous about their bikes. They take extra special care with the various components of the bike to make sure that it is always in tiptop shape–and one of the Omost crucial components of a bike are the tires. Here are some tips on how to properly maintain these bike tires.
Why those tires need regular maintenance
The bike’s tires are what comes in contact with the ground and provides the traction needed to traverse through different types of terrain. Obviously, the tires are the most easily worn down part of the bike. To ensure that the tires are working perfectly it should always be given the proper maintenance. The tire’s pressure is one of the things that should be given constant attention because it will spell the difference between the shortness or longevity of the tire’s lifespan. It also provides the kind of traction and control that a biker needs.
Tools for maintaining bike tires
As a biker you should get a bike pump and a tire pressure gauge. You may also want to carry a brush in your backpack. You can remove any stuck debris or hardened mud. But don’t brush the tires too vigorously so as not to damage the rubber or any other parts of the tire.
Know your bike
Be constantly aware of the quality of your ride when you are using your bike. The level of comfort and control on your bike will change with different tire pressures. You will notice differences when the tire is underinflated, optimally inflated or flat. Always be aware of this and check immediately if you feel that the riding comfort changes.
Check tire pressure before you ride
Always remember that tires constantly lose air. In fact, it can lose up to 10 pounds per square inch (PSI).This loss of air is expected and should not be seen as a sign that your tire is defective or damaged. Inflate your tires to its optimal pressure as part of your tire maintenance regimen. Always check the tire pressure before you go out on a ride and inflate accordingly if the tire has lost pressure.
Look at your tire’s sidewalls before you begin riding. This is a good habit to form so you’ll find out if your tires have any damage or not. An extra step would be to check the tire’s air pressure before using your bike and inflating it if it falls below the recommended PSI. You should know the correct PSI for your tires. The manufacturer would usually put that information on their web site if you don’t have the manual with you.
It’s also crucial to know what to do if your bike becomes deflated during the ride. Check out this video!
Photo from tomichicreektradingpost.com
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