Optimize your ride with our Bike Tire Pressure Calculator, designed to give you two tailored recommendations: Soft and Firm.
The calculator suggests two pressure levels to suit different riding preferences and terrains. Choose the ‘Soft’ setting for enhanced comfort and superior traction on gravel or uneven road surfaces. This pressure is ideal when you prioritize a smoother ride. Alternatively, the ‘Firm’ setting is recommended for riders who prefer a more responsive and direct feel from their bike. ‘Firm’ pressures also offer an added safety margin in case of slight pressure loss during your ride. While ‘Soft’ pressures can maximize comfort, they may increase stress on your tire casing over time, potentially affecting tire lifespan.
Based on nearly two decades of extensive tire testing across various widths, pressures, casings, and tread patterns, both on smooth roads and under real riding conditions, we’ve observed that high-performance, supple tires maintain consistent rolling speed at both ‘Soft’ and ‘Firm’ pressures. Pressures in between these values may result in slightly reduced rolling efficiency. For riding on rough surfaces, the ‘Soft’ pressure setting is generally more efficient, contributing to better overall speed and control.
Remember, these recommendations are designed to optimize your bike for speed and efficiency, but they serve as excellent starting points. Experiment with these values to determine the tire pressure that feels best for your specific bike, the typical terrain you encounter, and your individual riding style. It’s also important to be aware that the accuracy of bike pump gauges can vary. When in doubt, prioritize a tire pressure that feels subjectively right and safe for you, rather than strictly adhering to the calculator’s values.
Crucially, never exceed the maximum pressure rating specified for your tires and rims. For tubeless setups, many tires have maximum pressure limits lower than those printed on the tire sidewall. Always consult the official specifications from your tire and rim manufacturers. For tubeless tires used with hookless rims, ETRTO standards define a maximum pressure of 73 psi (5 bar).
