That conversation with a retired mechanic about tire pressure stuck with me

I was at the co-op last Saturday fixing a flat on my old hybrid and this guy comes over to borrow a pump. He sees me filling to the max PSI on the sidewall and just goes 'you're riding on rocks, not rubber.' Said he runs his tires 15 PSI lower than the max for better grip and less pinch flats. I tried it on my commute this week and honestly my hands don't go numb anymore. Anyone else run lower pressures than what's printed on the tire?

2 comments

2 Comments

anthony_jackson26d ago

Riding on rocks, not rubber"... sounds like my last relationship, honestly. Might have to try the lower pressure thing though, my hands could use the break.

the_vera26d ago

Lower pressure really does help take the sting out of rough trails, especially if you're running tubeless. Just don't go too low or you'll be burping air on every sharp turn and cussing yourself out.