Floor pump with gauge

A floor pump is a standing pump you operate with both hands, and a built-in gauge shows the pressure as you pump. It is the easiest way to set tire pressure accurately at home.

What it's used for

Park Tool notes that a tire's pressure recommendations are printed on its sidewall, and its method is to inflate to a low pressure, check the bead is seated, then inflate to full pressure and check it with a gauge (Park Tool tire guide).

What to look for

• A head that fits your valve type. Park Tool describes Schrader valves (about 8 mm across, like a car tire) and Presta valves (about 6 mm, thinner, with a small locknut on top) (Park Tool).
• A pressure range that covers the figure on your tire's sidewall.
• A gauge you can read easily, since you will check it every time.

Using it safely

• On a Presta valve, unthread the top locknut before inflating (Park Tool).
• Watch the molding line just above the rim as the tire fills. If it bulges upward, Park Tool says the tire is not seated, so deflate it right away and reseat it (Park Tool).
• Tighten any valve stem locknut finger tight only (Park Tool).
• Stay within the range printed on the tire.

Videos

Guides that use it

• Set tire pressure
• Fix a flat on a rear hub motor wheel
• Tubeless tires and sealant
• E-bike flat tire

Sources

• Tire and tube removal and installation, Park Tool