Ride Safer With the Right Tire PressureMany cyclists still pump their tires to the maximum number printed on the sidewall, but that’s almost always too high. Proper tire pressure depends on your weight, tire width, road conditions, tubes vs tubeless, and weather. Getting it right can dramatically improve comfort, grip, and flat protection.
Why pressure matters: • Too much pressure = less grip. An overinflated tire skips across small bumps instead of conforming to them. On wet roads, that reduced contact makes slipping far more likely.
• Right pressure = better control. Properly inflated tires give you more traction in corners and while braking, especially in the rain.
• Improved flat protection. Softer tires absorb debris instead of bouncing over it, which reduces the chance of cuts or pinch flats.
How to find your ideal pressure:Adjusting for rain- and we hope to get more of it!! • Drop pressure by 3–5% in wet conditions to improve traction. (No need for drastic changes.)
• After storms, expect more debris washed onto bike lanes and shoulders. Slow down and scan ahead.
• If it’s still raining or conditions are wet, avoid painted lines, metal grates, and smooth concrete as these stay slick.
• After the ride, inspect your tires for embedded glass or grit before it works its way in.
Main Takeaways- make sure you're not running too much pressure in your tires, ride just a little less pressure when it's wet and there is debris, and check your tires post ride.