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Tyre Valves
Bicycles primarily use either Schraeder™ or Presta
tyre valves. To inflate tyres the pump needs to be
fitted with the appropriate attachment specific to
the valve stem.
The Schraeder™ valve is the most commonly
used tyre valve. It is also known as the car or
the American valve. Tyres fitted with Schraeder™
valves can be inflated using either a hand pump
or a service station pump, as it is the same valve
used on cars. Inflation involves removing the
valve dust cap, then screwing or pushing on the
pump connector to the end of the valve stem and
inflating. By depressing the pin in the end of the
valve stem the tyre can be deflated.
The Presta valve is also referred to as the French
or high pressure valve. In order to inflate tyres
equipped with this valve, the pump needs to have
a special fitting attached to accommodate the
valve’s narrower profile. The service station pump
can be used if an adapter is screwed onto the
valve stem. Inflation involves removing the dust
cap, unscrewing the valve stem locknut, freeing the
valve stem by pushing down on it, then fitting the
pump head and inflating. Deflation is achieved by
opening the valve stem locknut and depressing the
valve stem.
Note: The valve dust cap should always be
replaced in order to prevent dirt entering and
damaging the valve.
Using a service station pump to inflate tyres is not
encouraged as tyres may blow out if sudden over
inflation occurs.
Schraeder Valve
(Car/American)
Presta Valve
(French)
TM
™ -
Schraeder is a registered Trademark
of the Schraeder Corporation Inc.
APOM0312
Apollo Bicycle Company Pty. Ltd. ABN: 60 001 914 469
