Tire gauges are used to measure bicycle tire pressure and determine if an ideal tire pressure has been attained. A higher tire inflation pressure is always ideal because it reduces rolling resistance.However, the right inflation pressure is based on the bicycle load exerted on the tire and on the kind of riding. The bicycle load includes the weights of the bicycle, the rider and the luggage if there is.
Even with tires of small diameters require a higher pressure. Maximum and minimum tire inflation recommendations are indicated on tire sidewalls. They should always serve as a guide to bike tire pressure. A tire with a low pressure can result into snake bite punctures and premature tire wear.
There are three kinds of tire pressure gauges- the digital type, the dial type and the rod type.
Digital tire pressure gauges are the most modern and reliable tire gauges in the market and are a popular choice among buyers. It has an LCD display showing the calculated tire pressure. A digital sensor detects the tire pressure. The accuracy level of a digital sensor is far better than mechanical sensors. However, digital tire pressure gauge is a little bulkier since it requires the use of batteries.
A rod type pressure gauge is a stick type gauge with inlet placed in the tire to measure tire pressure. This low-cost rod type gauges are somewhat inaccurate and they have limited span.
Dial gauges resemble a small clock. The dial rotates to point at a certain pressure reading after placing the gauge on the tire. A bleed valve comes with the dial gauge to reduce tire pressure or discharge excessive pressure after taking a reading of the tire pressure.
Selecting the right air pressure gauge for your bike will depend on your budget, the type of valve you have, size restrictions, and pressure range. To narrow down your options, we have listed five of the best bike tire gauges in the market.
This heavy duty pressure gauge has a rugged design for long lasting use.
The LCD display is large for easy pressure reading. The automatic shut off prevents deflation.
The angled head and rubber coated handle are made for easy gripping. Readings are accurate within 0.05 psi.
This product has microprocessor that monitors tire pressure. It is versatile since it can be used not only for bikes but also for cars, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, sports utility vehicle and all-terrain vehicle.
It also has the capability to inflafe a mid-sized car tire to 30 psi less than 3.5 minutes.
The compact design and its storage case make it ideal for storage in the trunk of your vehicle.
This digital tire gauge has a simple push button control to turn it on. It automatically shuts off after 30 seconds to save on battery power.
The guage’s ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip and a soft, non-slip surface for sure grip.
Its ultimate visibility is provided by the lighted nozzle and the display screen, making it reliable to use in low light and night conditions
The digital display instantly shows an exact reading which makes it more efficient than analog gauges.
This digital gauge is a favorite of both professional and amateur bike riders. It is made of a high quality material and components, and has been test for quality and durability. A single battery powers the display unit.
The pressure values can be seen in psi, bar and kg per square cm. The gauge can measure up to 250 psi of air pressure or 17 bars. The device only weighs at 65 grams and is only 4 inches in length.
This air pressure gauge has a tread depth indicator which makes it capable of indicating tire pressure and tire tread depth. Tire tread can be measured up to 1/32 of an inch.
Its air pressure measurement range is from 5 to 99 psi.
The extra large display provides easy viewing of the pressure reading. It also has a switchable readout for international use.