Unable to put more than 100 psi in tyre

[GetAGrip]

Another day and another dumb question from me . I have Giant P-R3 Flatguard 700x25mm tyres on the bike and use a cheap(ish) Crivit track pump from Lidl. I am looking for pressure of 125 psi for the tyres, but as the title says, I can't get above 100 psi. Am I going to have to get a better pump or am I just being a (literally)?
I appreciate a cheap pump is not exactly going to be acurate, but, is there a rule of thumb as to what the margin of error is? under or over? Also, do the tyres need to be 125 on the nose, or can I run them a little softer? (not that I want to, just asking) Thanks

 

[Dan_h]

I run the same tyres at 110 PSI, I have had no problems with them at that pressure. It may be worth getting a better pump though, it is one of those things that you will always have a use for!

The specified pressure is the pressure at which were your tyre to pop off the rims the manufacturer will say it is your own fault! They can be run under or over this pressure depending on your preference.

 

[GetAGrip]

Ok thanks Dan, So I can go for a quick spin this morning even though I'm running a little light on air

 

[Cubist]

Running them a bit soft in this weather won't do any harm, unless, *ahem*, you are a wee bit heavy, *ahem*, or ride over some sharp edged potholes. An average weight rider on normal roads will benefit more from 100 than 125 psi. It's a comfort thing.

 

[GetAGrip]

Running them a bit soft in this weather won't do any harm, unless, *ahem*, you are a wee bit heavy, *ahem*, or ride over some sharp edged potholes. An average weight rider on normal roads will benefit more from 100 than 125 psi. It's a comfort thing.

Cheers for that Cubist. Weight to height = pretty average I think, although, one can always do better heh

 

[NormanD]

A better guaged track pump will give you some peace of mind, EBC do a great track pump for £10 at the moment. I run the rear at 120 psi and the front at 110 psi, being the rear needs a little more air due to the extra weight

Running your tyres at 100 psi each won't harm them, it'll just make the ride a little softer

 

[Linford]

I had 700c*23 on my roadie and ran them at about 100psi. running at 120psi and it was like riding a concrete mixer, and made the ride so harsh. I've got a red Halfords Track pump which cost about £20 and would go up to that pressure easily.

 

[HLaB]

Buy a better pump. The cheap lidl & Aldi pumps I have are fine for an emergency but not great above 85psi with my slightly more expensive pump I can easily take my tyre to +100psi. I've had up to 130psi in tyres in the past but I've now settled for 95-100psi front, 100-110psi rear, that seems to be the right balance of comfort/speed/p'ture resistance for me.

 

[MattHB]

Track pump was one of the best garage items I bought running at 140psi in my new 23's

 

[Fab Foodie]

Better pump, Joe Blow sport cheap and cheerful and works well.
120psi is high for a 25c. I'm a fat git and 100/105 is more than enough. Too hard tyres unless you're riding on super smooth roads actually make you slower.

 

[GetAGrip]

Wow, you really are a kind and helpful bunch aren't you! Just got back from my ride with the front tyre at 100psi.
Yep it was a good comfy ride and hopefully I gave that pu.....e fairy the slip this time as well. I think we will invest in a new pump, like you say, it's one garage tool that will always be needed. Thanks all.

 

[ohnovino]

I've got two different Lidl track pumps (one at home, one under my desk in work) and have no problem getting an indicated 120psi with either.

 

[GetAGrip]

A better guaged track pump will give you some peace of mind, EBC do a great track pump for £10 at the moment. I run the rear at 120 psi and the front at 110 psi, being the rear needs a little more air due to the extra weight

Running your tyres at 100 psi each won't harm them, it'll just make the ride a little softer

Just ordered one from EBC. For what it's worth to anyone, the site is saying they are low on stock! (couple of days left)

 

[GetAGrip]

I've got two different Lidl track pumps (one at home, one under my desk in work) and have no problem getting an indicated 120psi with either.

Could be a lack of power my end then

 

[youngoldbloke]

There were good and bad Lidl track pumps. The one with a narrow aluminium barrel that rises and falls with the handle works fine - I have had two for a number of years - £4.99 each IIRC. You need a narrow barrel for high pressure.