How to Check the Pressure of a Tire With a Presta Valve

There are two types of bicycle tire valves, Schrader and Presta. Schrader valves are the same type used on car tires and are found on less-expensive cruisers, mountain bikes and kids bikes. Presta valves are used almost exclusively on road bikes and high-end mountain bikes. Presta valves are characterized by a very narrow stem that will not fit common air nozzles and pressure checkers. To check tire pressure on a Presta-equipped tire, you need to use a Presta valve adapter.

Things You'll Need

  • Presta valve adapter
  • Tire pressure gauge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the valve cap from the valve stem.

    • 2

      Grab a small bead with your fingers that extends up from the center of the valve stem.

    • 3

      Twist the bead counterclockwise with your fingers until it stops.

    • 4

      Insert the threaded end of the valve adapter over the top of the Presta valve and screw it onto the valve.

    • 5

      Insert the tire pressure gauge onto the top of the Presta valve adapter and read the pressure displayed by the pressure gauge.