A Guide to Bike Tyre Pressure 

Sorting out your inner tubes might not be the most exciting part of cycling, but they’re one of the most important. They keep your wheels rolling, so setting the right PSI (pounds per square inch) for your bike and riding style is essential to having a good time on the road, BMX track, or up a mountain. 

In this blog, we’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to tyres and inner tubes, to help you get the most out of your next ride.

Why does tyre pressure matter? 

  • Rolling resistance – Running a lower PSI will increase your tyres’ surface area contact with the ground, improving stability and grip. However, if you’re running a lower tyre pressure, this can also create drag and slow you down. 
  • Comfort – A higher PSI can feel bumpy on rough terrain and be less comfortable – increasing the risk of unwanted aches and pains. 
  • Puncture resistance – If you overinflate your tyres, you’re at a higher risk of punctures and pinch flats. 
  • Speed – The right PSI can guarantee more speed, which is important if you’re riding competitively. 
  • Bike handling – Having the right PSI level is essential for cornering, braking, and riding in the rain. 

Does it matter what tyre I’m riding? 

Yes. The type of tyre you’re riding will affect maintenance, speed, and performance. 

  • Tubular Tyres – Stuck directly to tubular-specific rims, these are ideal for high-performance racing due to their ability to be run at higher pressures while remaining lightweight and not slowing you down. 
  • Tubeless Tyres – A tight-fitting tyre with sealed rim tape and a valve for inflation. This system allows for lower tyre pressure and fewer punctures. 
  • Inner Tube Tyres – Common across many cycling styles including road and mountain biking. These can be made from a variety of materials, including butyl, latex, or TPU and features in more traditional road riding. 

What PSI is right for my bike? 

From mountain biking to road racing, each type of cycling requires different pressures based on tyre width, rider weight, and terrain. 

Below, we’ve listed the recommended PSI levels for plenty of popular riding styles from road racing to downhill riding.

Road Cycling 

  • Race Bikes (90–110 PSI) – Higher pressure recommended for speed. With more modern, wider race tyres optimum pressure can be found at around 60 – 80 PSI. 
  • Endurance Bikes (80–100 PSI) – Lower pressures for comfort over long distances. 

Commuting and Leisure 

  • Hybrid Bikes (50–70 PSI) – A mix of comfort and efficiency for commuting or e-bikes so you can get to work on time without risking a puncture. 
  • City Cruisers (60–80 PSI) – A slightly higher pressure helps maintain pace in traffic and climb hills more easily. 

Cyclo-cross (CX) 

  • Muddy tracks (15–30 PSI) – Lower pressures improve grip on slippery, wet tracks. 
  • Hard-packed courses (30–40 PSI) – Slightly higher pressures for faster rolling and more speed when the track is hard and dry. 

Mountain Biking 

  • Cross-country (22–30 PSI) – A balance of grip and rolling speed. 
  • Downhill racing (18–25 PSI) – Lower pressure to absorb impact to avoid any aches and pains after your ride. 

BMX and Gravel Riding 

  • Race BMX (80–100 PSI) – High PSI for speed, jumps, and turns. 
  • Freestyle BMX (40–70 PSI) – Lower PSI for tricks, turns and and comfort. 

How do I check my tyre pressure? 

Use a pump with a pressure gauge to check your current tyre pressure accurately, the Halfords Advanced Track Pump is an excellent example, and it can be used on both Schrader and Presta valve types and a variety of bikes including road and mountain, with a max pressure of 160 PSI. Before purchasing a bike pump, always check the maximum PSI that the pump can inflate too, otherwise you could be stuck unable to inflate your tyres to the max pressure needed. 

If your tyre loses air quickly or needs constant pumping, it may have a puncture and require a new tyre or inner tube, you can discover our range of inner tubes over at Halfords.com, or by visiting your local store.

What affects tyre pressure? 

  • Weight – Larger, and heavier riders need a higher PSI, lighter, small riders can run lower. 
  • Tyre Width – Wider tyres allow for lower PSI while maintaining grip and speed. 
  • Weather – Wet conditions require lower PSI for more grip, and dryer conditions offer a higher PSI. 
  • Terrain – Rough surfaces need lower PSI to absorb shocks, so you’re less likely to get injured after landing a big jump or riding over old tarmac. 

Getting your tyre pressure right is one of the easiest ways to make your ride smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re hitting the trails on your mountain bike or cruising down the road, the correct PSI can make a huge difference to grip, comfort, and control. 

Take a couple of minutes to check your tyres before every ride, and you’ll notice a big improvement in handling and performance.