Service Series: Using an Air Pump

The very best way to prevent flats is by keeping your tires properly inflated, which we covered in the very first installment of our Service Series. But now you’ve gotta pump your tires up to their proper PSI.

If you don’t know how to properly use an air pump, you are not alone. Keep reading for a step-by-step instructional and GET PUMPED!

Check your tire pressure

Remove the valve cap

If you have a Presta Valve, you’ll need to unscrew the valve tip. Gently, just ‘til it’s loose. It’s not supposed to come off all the way.

Find the correct hole on the pump for your valve

Presta valves will need the one with the smaller circumference.

Attach your valve to the pump

Most pumps have a lever that is down when it’s open and up to close. If your valve isn’t fitting into the hole, just flip the lever! Once it’s snug, go ahead and close up the pump — in most cases, this will mean lifting it up. NOTE: THIS STEP IS WHERE MOST PEOPLE GET IT WRONG.

PUMP!

Use both hands and stand with both feet on the base of the pump for best leverage.

Remove the valve

In most cases, this will mean flipping the lever down.

Replace the valve cap

With a Presta valve, be sure to twist the tip back tight first!

If you’re a video learner, this one from Park Tools is helpful. Please note you will more-than-likely be using the consumer head type of lever that they reference. In fact, the pump used in this video is the very one we have to loan out at the shop!