What Tyre Pressure Is Best? | How A Tyre Insert Can Help

Summary

This video explores the benefits of tire inserts for mountain biking, focusing on their ability to prevent punctures, protect rims, and improve grip at lower tire pressures. It discusses the use of closed cell foam inserts and their impact on handling and stability. The script also compares different types of inserts for various riding styles, from downhill to cross country. A hands-on experiment tests tire performance at different pressures with inserts, revealing insights on optimal setup for aggressive riders.

Takeaways

• 🚴‍♂️ Tire inserts are used in mountain biking to prevent punctures and protect rims, especially popular in downhill and enduro disciplines.
• 🔄 Inserts are becoming increasingly common in cross-country biking as well, where weight is a more critical factor.
• 🧼 Inserts are made of closed-cell foam, which is durable and doesn't absorb moisture, unlike open-cell foam or everyday foam products.
• 🛡️ They serve as a barrier between the tire and the rim, preventing damage from sharp edges and impacts, enhancing the tire's durability.
• 💨 Inserts allow riders to run lower tire pressures for better grip and control without the risk of pinch flats.
• 🏞️ They can act as a 'run-flat' system, enabling riders to continue riding even after a puncture, providing a safer ride home or to the finish line.
• 🏍️ For aggressive riders, inserts provide structural support to the tire, reducing deformation and improving handling and cornering stability.
• 🔑 The size and shape of inserts are crucial; larger inserts offer more damping but may limit tire flexibility and performance over rough terrain.
• 🔄 Different types of inserts are available for various riding styles, from downhill-focused with high-density foam to XC inserts that are lighter and use lower-density foam.
• 📉 Experiments with tire pressure and inserts showed that dropping pressures can improve ride feel but going too low can lead to loss of control and safety risks.
• 🤔 The decision to use inserts involves a balance of weight, protection, and performance, with personal riding style and preferences playing a significant role.

Q & A

What is the primary function of tire inserts in mountain biking?

Tire inserts serve as a barrier between the tire and the rim, protecting against punctures and rim damage, and allowing for lower tire pressures to improve grip and control.

Why are tire inserts becoming popular in cross country biking?

Cross country bikers are using tire inserts more due to the added security they provide, despite being traditionally associated with downhill biking where weight is less of a concern.

What type of foam are tire inserts made of and why?

Tire inserts are made of closed cell foam because it doesn't absorb moisture, liquids, or sealant, making it more durable and suitable for this application than open cell foam.

How do tire inserts help with tire puncture prevention?

Tire inserts prevent punctures by acting as a barrier that stops the tire from compressing fully against the rim when hitting sharp objects, thus protecting both the tire and the rim.

Can tire inserts act as a 'run flat' system for mountain bikes?

Yes, tire inserts can act like a 'run flat' system by maintaining tire volume even when punctured, allowing the bike to be ridden back to the car park or to finish a race.

How do tire inserts improve handling and grip?

Tire inserts improve handling and grip by adding structural support to the tire, preventing excessive deformation, especially during aggressive riding, and providing better stability and control.

What is the difference between downhill and cross country tire inserts?

Downhill inserts are thicker and use higher density foam for maximum protection, while cross country inserts are lighter with lower density foam, offering protection and stability without adding too much weight.

What is the recommended tire pressure when using tire inserts for cross country biking?

The recommended pressure can vary, but the script suggests experimenting with lower pressures than usual, such as 19-21 PSI front and rear, to take advantage of the added protection without compromising performance.

What is the 'faf' factor mentioned in the script in relation to tire inserts?

The 'faf' factor refers to the added weight and potential inconvenience of having to install and remove tire inserts, especially for those who frequently swap tires.

What is the impact of tire inserts on tire damping properties?

Tire inserts change the damping properties of the tire by occupying some of the air volume, which can firm up the tire more quickly, similar to adding more tokens to a suspension system.