Rear Tire Pressure Survey

[Ray]

I carry the Cycle Pump and their air branded air gauge I attach in line when adding air. I have checked all my gauges against another persons calibrated gauge so know the adjustment factor for each one. My 3 gauges have a range of 2.5 psi difference between them. When traveling I check tire pressures every 2 - 3 days adjusting if a ½ # psi off my 38 and 42 setting. If significant elevation or temperature change from day to day I check daily. The reading from the bike is strictly to verify I’m not leaking air and a close to 4# difference remains front to rear otherwise useless to me. Pressures are always checked when tires are cold.

You know..., I'd love to think I'm fastidious about tire pressures, but I can't match that....

I mean, on the road, I USED to do a daily quick check of cold pressures (with a calibrated monitor) and once in a while hot, to double check my running pressure. I ride all year. Hot days, I might start a little higher and cold days a little lower, but admittedly, TPMS/Reifendruck-Control pressure calculations to temperature of 20 deg C all tend to be the same when I am done fiddling with pressures..., so probably just another habit that will die as the TPMS becomes more reliable and I become more comfortable with the technology. Eventually, I will probably only check to make sure the TPMS is functioning and then use the TPM pressure reading to determine if I need a little change in pressure for the day.

In the past, I'd air up or down on the road one or two pounds depending on road surface, temperature, and my feeling on the bike, but I realized the other day that with this big beast, I hardly ever feel the need to make significant changes while riding, and to be honest, as I just ordered another heavy weight (2-ply) Metzler for the rear, I have to admit, I'm probably not the sensitive, tuned-in rider I was or would like to be. (Or, the tires and adaptive suspension have become really good).

(Side note - went to the dealer today to look at their new line of Beta off-road bikes. Though it's still two wheels and the basics are the same, there is no question that the 150 pound lightly sprung, 300CC trials bike ain't an RS.)

Darrell - Maybe I've asked this before - do you aim for different pressures without the 40 - 60 pounds of luggage (which would be under 10% of total weight)? I still do this out of habit, but can't say I'm feeling the difference at speed.

(And MrVvrroomm - now I know you are a real mechanic; I've never been able to wear out a Porter Cable tool or compressor.)