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For those who don't subscribe to RoadBikeRider News, thought I would forward this interesting article. I am sure it will spark some lively discussion. Cheers, Bill Elliott >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
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2. Uncle
Al:
Inflation
Revelation o^o
o^o o^o o^o o^o o^o Tire pressure is one of the
most
controversial and misunderstood elements of road
riding. Most roadies are under the
mistaken
impression that unless pressure is well over 100 pounds per square inch
(psi)
it's like they'll be dragging around a boat anchor. Tire manufacturers
perpetuate this myth by stamping a Maximum Tire Pressure value on the
sidewall.
For road tires, this can range from 110 psi to an astronomical 170 psi.
Combine these pressures with
the
super-stiff, radial-spoked wheels many riders are now using, and the result
is
some serious self-abuse. Based on 40 years of wrenching
and
my discussions with tire experts and pro riders, there's no compelling
reason to
run more than 95 psi for 95% of your riding. Our roads are deteriorating
faster
than politicians can spend our tax dollars, and really high pressure means
a
really harsh ride. I could also mention poor
cornering,
short tire life, and the promise of many punctures. The key here is to ride the
tire
size that matches your weight. Many roadies are running 700x23C no matter
what
they weigh. If you're over 180 lbs. (82 kilos), 25C is a better choice. For
us
"Clydesdales" over 205 lbs. (93 kilos), 28C is the smart
size. I'm talking fast recreational
riding
here, not racing or touring. Racers can go narrower and tourers should go
wider. If your tire size corresponds
to
your weight, you can run 90-95 psi and not risk pinch flats. I guarantee
you
will roll just as fast or faster than you think you do on higher pressures.
You'll descend and corner faster (and safer). You'll suffer fewer
punctures, and
your tires will last as much as five times longer. So if you're a max-pressure
person,
try lowering the psi and upping the size (if your weight says you should).
Wean
yourself off high pressure bit by bit if you wish till you’re down
to 90 psi
front and 95 rear. Then experience the suppleness
your
tires are supposed to possess. Check out how much smoother cornering is,
how
much more comfortable you are, and how much less fatigue you feel at the
end of
your rides. I bet
you'll
be pleasantly surprised. (Click feedback@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx to
tell
us a mechanical matter you'd like to see Uncle-ized.) ______________________________________ ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe from GCCMail, please go to http://gccfla.org/. Point to Members Area, and click on GCCMail. Use the form on the page. |