Inflate the French valve? We explain how you can do this!

Inflating a bicycle tire with a French valve can be a challenge for some cyclists, especially if you are used to other types of valves such as the Dutch valve or the car valve. It is important to know how to achieve the correct tire pressure and which type of bicycle pump to use. Whether you have an e-bike, sports bike, city bike or racing bike, the correct way of inflating your bicycle tire ensures that it performs well and prevents problems such as a soft tire or a flat tire.

In this blog you will learn all about the different valves, how to use a French valve correctly and which bicycle pumps work best for your type of valve. This way you are always assured of good tire pressure and a fast, worry-free ride. Read on to discover how to perfectly inflate your bicycle tires for the best riding experience!

A French valve, also called a Presta valve, is a type of valve that is often used on racing bicycles and sports bicycles. This type of valve has a narrow, long shape with a small opening at the top. Before you can pump, you must remove the valve cap and loosen the valve. You can then place the pump on the valve and start inflating. This valve is very reliable and suitable for high tire pressures, which is ideal for racing bikes and e-bikes. It is important to know how much bar there needs to be in your tires to achieve the desired tire pressure. A good bicycle pump with a pressure gauge will help you get the correct tire pressure.

There are different types of valves that you can encounter on bicycles, including the French valve (Presta valve) and the Dutch valve. The French valve has a narrow opening and is suitable for high tire pressures, while the Dutch valve is wider and easier to use. A Dutch and French valve require different bicycle pumps; a good bicycle pump often has two openings to inflate both types of valves. The French valve is often used on sports bikes and racing bikes, while the Dutch valve is more common on city bikes. The choice between these valves often depends on your personal preference and the type of bicycle you have. Both valves fit specific types of bicycle pumps, so make sure you use the correct pump.

Follow these steps to properly inflate your bicycle tire:

• Step 1: Make sure you have a bicycle pump that is suitable for the type of valve on your bicycle. For a French valve (Presta valve) you often need a pump with a small opening.

• Step 2: Remove the valve cap and loosen the valve to release air. This applies specifically to the French valve.

• Step 3: Place the pump head firmly on the valve. With some pumps you have to turn a lever to properly secure the pump to the valve.

• Step 4: Inflate the tire and make sure you use a pressure gauge to check the tire pressure. The desired tire pressure for your bicycle is often indicated on the side of the tire.

• Step 5: Make sure you reach the right amount of bar. Low tire pressure creates a soft tire and increases the risk of a flat bicycle tire, while too high tire pressure can be dangerous.

• Step 6: When you have reached the desired tire pressure, remove the pump from the valve. Close the valve again and replace the valve cap.

Additional tips:

• Higher tire pressure is often required for e-bikes and sports bikes. Always check the specifications of your bicycle model.

• Make sure you always have a good bicycle pump at hand, possibly with different openings for different types of valves.

• Maintain your bicycle pump regularly to ensure that it continues to work properly.

Follow these steps to ensure that your bicycle tire is properly inflated and you can ride safely and comfortably.