The perfect tire pressure for your e-bike

There is no general answer to this question. Factors such as riding style, weight, tire width and weather can change the required tire pressure. Too much pressure reduces the fun factor on every ride because you will clearly feel every little stone under your tires. However, too little pressure can lead to higher tire wear. But don't worry, the search for the right tire pressure on the E-Bike Fortunately, is not rocket science. We'll tell you which factors you have to consider:

• Tire width and usage
• Combined weight of rider, bike and luggage
• Terrain
• Weather and climatic conditions
• Riding style and comfort

E-bike air pressure and tire width

A quick look at the tire's sidewall reveals the first clue to the ideal tire pressure. Here you will find the standardised ETRTO tire size and the recommended minimum and maximum tire pressure limits. This information serves as a good starting point ​​in search of the right tire pressure for your e-bike. Make sure that you always stay within the given values. Both too little and too much pressure can damage the tire.

The rule applies here: wider tires need less air pressure. Compared to narrow racing bike tires, hybrid e-bike tires are ridden with less pressure as they are between 37 and 50 millimeters wide. This has a direct increase in comfort. Wide bicycle tires dampen the unevenness of the road.

The air pressure must always be based on the total weight of the rider, bicycle and luggage. The rider makes up most of the overall weight. As a rule of thumb: the higher the weight, the higher the required tire pressure within the approved values ​​of your tire. Heavy riders generally have to put more pressure on their tires than lighter riders. You also need to consider bike bags, a backpack full of groceries or a child seat when adjusting the air pressure. If the tire pressure is too low for the overall weight, then comfort, puncture resistance and ultimately safety will suffer.

What tire pressure for which surface for an e-bike?

On a smooth asphalt, a tire rolls significantly better with higher pressure. Similarly, on dirt roads and other uneven streets, too much tire pressure prevents bumps being absorbed under the tire. You will clearly notice these bumps in your wrists, back and neck in the long run. So, you should also adjust your tire pressure depending on the route. Which surfaces will you expect on your ride? Less asphalt also means a little less air pressure for more comfort.

How does weather affect tire pressure?

The tire should give good grip even when wet. Reduce the air pressure on moist ground for more grip. But not too much! Too low and you'll quickly notice it in your front wheel. The result is spongy steering behaviour and an inability to stop when cornering. Temperature also has an impact on the tire pressure. High temperatures automatically increase the pressure in the tire. Check the air pressure to be on the safe side before long hot descents.

Different ridestyle means different tire pressure

Ultimately, the search for the right air pressure is also a question of your personal riding style. In addition to tire choice and overall weight, your personal comfort levels also help inform tire pressure. During your riders, you will quickly notice which air pressure feels good and fits your riding style. It is important to feel safe.

You have learned that less pressure on the tire increases your comfort. However, there's a balance to be made. Too low and you'll crack the sidewalls of your tires. The tire tread also wears out more quickly. If the air pressure is too low, the risk of a puncture increases when you roll over small obstacles such as potholes or light gravel. So called "snakebites" or "pinch flats" (two holes in the tube), are the result. In the worst case, there is damage to the rim.

Are you fed up of patching tubes? Then a tubeless setup may be the right solution for you. Especially on E-MTB The puncture protection with sealant is very popular and reliable. Take a look at our tubeless tutorial to learn more! Note that the tires and rim must be tubeless compatible.

The tire pressure determines how strongly the tire is deformed when rolling along in contact with obstacles. This creates friction and thus rolling resistance. This loss of energy must be compensated for by the rider and the e-bike motor. With increasing speed, the rolling resistance increases, which must be overcome. To get everything out of your battery, you should keep an eye on the rolling resistance. Too little air pressure can have a negative impact on the rolling resistance and absorb unnecessary power.

Have you finally found the right air pressure for your e-bike? Congratulations! Now we make sure that you don't run out of the air on the go. You should always have these little helpers with you on your rides:

The right bicycle pump carrying on your ride

A good mini pump belongs in your luggage on every bike ride. In the event of a flat, it often decides your next move for the day. Modern hand pumps are very handy and you'll barely notice they're there. Pay attention to the specified pump volume when buying. If you see "HP" in the product name, it stands for “High Pressure”. It is suitable for narrow tires that are ridden with high pressure, for example on road bikes. "High Volume" pumps can be used for all wide tires with a lot of volume. You'll have air in your tube again in no time.

If every minute counts, you can use CO2 cartridges in an emergency. These are particularly suitable for large-volume tires on an E-MTB. Pressure is back in the tire within seconds. However, they are not the most environmentally friendly solution for everyday punctures and usually intended for racing situations.

Digital tire pressure gauge

At home, a high-quality track pump with a gauge works well. But even then we advise you check the front and rear tires of your bicycle regularly. A digital gauge can help you be more precise and offers the tire pressure in PSI or bar.

Valve adapter for stopping at gas stations

When buying your pump and spare tubes you have to pay attention to the valve type. There are many different bicycle valve types with the most common being Presta and Schrader valves. If you pass a petrol station and need to pump up your tires, you can do so if you use Schrader valves. If not, you'll need to bring a valve adapter with you.

Patches, tire boots and replacement tubes

Mechanicals are a rite of passage for everyone. With the right repair kit you can easily fix them at the side of the road or trail. Make sure you have a patch, multitool, tire levers and replacement tubes, especially on longer rides. Don't let anything stands in the way of your e-bike ride!