Tire Pressure Question

[eSurfer]

My bike is a typical beach cruiser with a rear hub, Golden Motor/Magic Pie 1000W hub conversion kit. On the motor wheel, I noticed on the side of the tire that it said "Inflate to 40 - 65 LBS" This seemed like a lot to me, I had been riding it at about 35- 40 LBS with no trouble, but was wondering if I was sacrificing range with this level of inflation. I inflated it to 60 LBS, rode it for a couple days, and then the tire went flat. I had gone over 150 miles on that tube at the lower inflation, so it seems likely that the tire pressure did the deed. I replaced the tube with a standard tube but filled the new one with sealant goop, now riding at about 45 LBS, but it did seem to go farther on a charge at 60 LBS.

So, what's the story on tire presser with a rear hub motor tire? Should I be using a special inner tube? What kind of PSI is best? I weigh about 180 LBS. Does anyone ride at 65 LBS?

Thanks for your patience and answers.

 

[wesnewell]

The more pressure, the lower the rolling resistance, thus easier pedaling and more range. The drawback is a rougher ride. As for flats, you need a better rim tape, especially if using a double walled rim, Under more pressure those holes on the inside will allow the tube to stretch more in them causing them to be weaker at that point. those cheap rubber rim tapes aren't worth squat by themselves. Either get better rim tapes or run a layer of friction tape around the inside of the rim to provide better support at the holes. That will eliminate flats due to the added pressure at the holes.

 

[Ykick]

Quite the thread author lately, huh?

Tire air pressure is influenced by purpose, load and terrain but also rim width plays an important consideration in determining the “best” tire air pressure for a situation.

Most of us with any years/miles living this daily, learn the lesson about pinch flats or “snake bite”. If you ride over curbs and/or hit bad road frequently sometimes the only difference between suffering a pinch flat or no issue is simply 10psi higher tire air pressure.

Bottom line, once someone’s digested appropriate sizing/material issues it’s really a judgement thing you must learn by DOING not by pecking on a computer keyboard.

Another thing I can offer is that if you don't check tire air pressure weekly, you're doing it wrong. Even better, check before every ride. Once you learn some "feel" it's only a simple squeeze to know when it's time for more air. Which is more frequent with most bicycle tubes/tires than most people think.

And don't forget 10F degree change in tire air temperature accounts for about 2PSI change in air pressure. You will notice 50F swings on any vehicle tire but particularly bicycles since they're more often aired up indoors and then taken outside.

 

[eSurfer]

Quite the thread author lately, huh?

Yeah, sorry for the noobpidity. I find some answers using the search feature, but I often can't find specific answers. Plus, you guys need something to do anyway

 

[Ykick]

Quite the thread author lately, huh?

Yeah, sorry for the noobpidity. I find some answers using the search feature, but I often can't find specific answers. Plus, you guys need something to do anyway

I believe it’s not as much about “searching” as it is about “reading” but to each their own. However, pointing a finger and making supposedly "humorous" excuse to deflect your behavior towards those who volunteer time to help share experience/knowledge around here? Oh, I’ve got something to do alright…

 

[eSurfer]

Quite the thread author lately, huh?

Yeah, sorry for the noobpidity. I find some answers using the search feature, but I often can't find specific answers. Plus, you guys need something to do anyway

I believe it’s not as much about “searching” as it is about “reading” but to each their own. However, pointing a finger and making supposedly "humorous" excuse to deflect your behavior towards those who volunteer time to help share experience/knowledge around here? Oh, I’ve got something to do alright…

Oh dear, didn't mean to sound offensive, sorry about that. Thanks for your patience and your knowledge.

 

[ebent]

If your skeleton is OK and bouncing around a bit does not affect you then keep the pressure high. Do you have suspension? That will affect advice. No goop. I get heavy duty tubes if possible and heavy liners. I ride with a spare tube and tools to change the tire.