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The size, pressure rating, and on some high-performance tires the specific
recommended use, are marked on the sidewall of the tire (see Fig. 20). The
part of this information which is most important to you is Tire Pressure.
WARNING: Never inflate a tire beyond the maximum pressure marked on
the tire's sidewall. Exceeding the recommended maximum pressure may
blow the tire off the rim, which could cause damage to the bike and
injury to the rider and bystanders.
The best way to inflate a bicycle tire to the correct pressure is with a bicycle
pump. Your dealer can help you select an appropriate pump.
CAUTION: Gas station air hoses move a large volume of air very rapidly,
and will raise the pressure in your tire very rapidly. To avoid overinfla-
tion when using a gas station air hose, put air into your tire in short,
spaced bursts.
Tire pressure is given either as
maximum pressure
or as a
pressure
range
. How a tire performs under different terrain or weather conditions
depends largely on tire pressure.
!
!
