The secret to smoother, safer cycling: Why tyre pressure matters
February 19, 2025
Ever spotted a cyclist rolling along with visibly squidgy tyres? It’s painful to watch. Under-inflated tyres make every ride harder, sapping your energy and slowing you down. They’re also an easily overlooked hazard for cars and mobility scooters, guzzling fuel or draining battery life.
The good news is maintaining the right tyre pressure is child's play. All it takes is the right tool for the job - and two minutes of your time.
Why tyre pressure matters
Your tyres are the only thing between you and the road, and getting the pressure right makes a world of difference. Too soft, and you’ll be working harder with every pedal stroke—not to mention increasing your risk of pinch punctures. Too hard, and you’ll lose comfort and risk a blowout. The sweet spot depends on the type of bike you ride:
Road bikes: 80–130 psi (pounds per square inch) for speed and efficiency.
Mountain bikes: 25–35 psi for grip on rough terrain.
Hybrid bikes: 40–70 psi for a balance of comfort and rolling resistance
With a steel barrel and a sturdy base, the JoeBlow is built to last. It’s compatible with Presta, Schrader, and Dunlop valves, meaning it’ll work on justabout any bike, car or mobility scooter. And with a maximum pressure of 160psi, it’s got more than enough power for the job.
We’ve been using the JoeBlow for years - at cycling events, in the office, and at home. Like any well-used tool, the pump head will eventually wear out, buts pares are easy to find. It’s a small gripe for a pump that makes tyre maintenance a breeze.
Think a track pump is just for bikes? Think again. They’re ideal for quickly inflating footballs, pram tyres, and even car tyres. And if your bike’s been languishing in the shed all winter, a track pump will get you back on the road in minutes.
New to fixing flats? Our three-minute guide shows you how to mend a punctured bicycle tyre without breaking a sweat.
Tyre inflation is the simplest bit of bike maintenance, yet it’s one that many cyclists overlook. Proper pressure means better grip, fewer punctures, and a more efficient ride.'
Win a Topeak JoeBlow track pump
We have a JoeBlow track pump to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply leave us a comment below and we will draw a name next week.
Bicycle punctures? We've got you covered: Get Cycle Rescue for free with ETA bicycle insurance
If you suffer a breakdown (including punctures, or even a flat e-bike battery) while out cycling, our 24-hour Cycle Rescue team is on hand to arrange transport for you and your bicycle to a safe location. The service is included for free with ETA cycle insurance, along with:
• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)
The ethical choice
The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.
The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.
Information correct at time of publication.
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