Pump Question

[colinr]

I finally got a track pump (Blackburn Air Tower 1) and tried it out today. Tyres say they take max 115psi, so I thought I'm aim for 90-100 and see how that was.

Once the gauge got to ~90 the resistance was massive. Should I stop there, or do you "push through" with these things? (though the tyres are plenty solid at this point, I don't think I'd actually want to go higher)

Also, when using pumps on schrader valves in the past the gauge instantly jumped to reflect current pressure. With this pump on presta valves it jumps up as you go along (starting from very low regardless of current pressure). I figure it's to do with prestas working differently, is that normal?

 

[fossyant]

Yep - the pressure settles with prestas - i.e. goes high then use the lower.

I have an old Silca Track Pump, all steel, and it get's no harder going from 80 PSI to 150 PSI..... (old as in 20 plus years old...use it all the time) - Could be the design - is it plastic ?

 

[Gerry Attrick]

Secret with track pumps is to go with one with a narrow barrel. Less force is then needed to pump high pressures, although you will pump less volume per stroke.

 

[Ben M]

you need to man up to be honest

 

[colinr]

It's a steel barrel. Seems pretty narrow to me, maybe an inch?

So it's normal to get resistance at the higher pressures then? It just felt like I might detonate the tyre if I kept going!

you need to man up to be honest

I've seen Training Day... that gets you shot

 

[Randochap]

If the gauge is accurate, go for it. And good choice on PSI. Depending on your weight, 90-110 is adequate. Best balance of comfort and performance.

I weigh 130lbs and use 90 in front 100 rear for 23mm tyres.

 

[colinr]

If the gauge is accurate, go for it.

I assume it is, the pump is new. Is there some completely obvious test that I've not thought of?

I'm currently 150 lbs. 25mm tyres a bit under 90 in the front and a bit over 90 in the back. It feels fine, that's good enough for me.

 

[Randochap]

I'm currently 150 lbs. 25mm tyres a bit under 90 in the front and a bit over 90 in the back. It feels fine, that's good enough for me.

Should be perfect. But there's no danger going higher.

 

[punkypossum]

I struggle with my topeak once I get over 80 - but I'm a weakly girly!

 

[l4dva]

Yeah I have the same issue with my topeak (NOT the weak girly part!!!)

When you attach the value the gauge dosen't show anything untill you start pumping, and it dose get difficult the higher you go. Only ever used it once though.

 

[Shaun]

I'm ... cough ... erm ... 231 pounds, and like to keep my commuter tyres at around 90 front / 110 rear - with a bit more in my Roubaix tyres (but then it's an altogether more comfortable bike so harder tyres aren't a problem).

I bought a Topeak Joe Blow Sport Track Pump for around £25 years ago which is still giving great service and doesn't really get any harder to push as the tyre presure increases.

Have you tried any other pumps so you have a comparison?

Cheers,
Shaun

 

[Randochap]

Are you priming the presta valve -- that is, tapping it on top to break the seal (lets a bit of air out), before you attach valve and start pumping?

 

[Shaun]

Are you priming the presta valve -- that is, tapping it on top to break the seal (lets a bit of air out), before you attach valve and start pumping?

Oh, yes, that's a good one - forgot about that - makes it almost impossible to plunge the pump!!

 

[colinr]

Are you priming the presta valve -- that is, tapping it on top to break the seal (lets a bit of air out), before you attach valve and start pumping?

Yes, nearly took my eye out with the air blast. It comes out pretty hard.

I think I just need to pump it harder. Thanks all.

 

[John the Monkey]

Within the min and max range of your tyres, the preferable pressure can be quite a personal thing. I remember chatting to the folk at my bike shop, who preferred a pressure about 10psi under my favoured level. I tried it, and hated it - the ride was far too "soggy" for me.

Best bet is to experiment a bit, and find the sweet spot for you, your tyres, and your bike. FWIW, I found Continental's "recommended pressure" values to be largely spot on for their tyres.