PSI
Noun
A unit of measure for tire pressure.
Example usage: 'My bike tires have a pressure of 80 PSI.'
Most used in: Cycling circles around the world.
Most used by: Cyclists of all levels who need to adjust their tire pressure.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 0/10
Also see: PSI, Pounds per Square Inch, Bar, Kilopascals,
What is PSI in Cycling?
PSI (pounds per square inch) is a term used to describe the amount of air pressure in a bicycle tire. It is important to know the PSI of a tire to ensure it is correctly inflated, as it affects the speed, comfort, and safety of the rider.
The optimal PSI for a bicycle tire depends on the type of tire, the rider’s weight, and the type of terrain. Generally, a tire should be inflated from 30 to 65 PSI. For mountain bike tires, a lower PSI is usually recommended, ranging from 25 to 35 PSI. For road tires, a higher PSI is usually recommended, ranging from 80 to 130 PSI.
Incorrectly inflated tires can be dangerous. Under-inflated tires can lead to an increased risk of punctures and can cause the rider to lose control of their bike. Over-inflated tires can cause the tire to wear out faster and can cause the rider to feel every bump in the road.
It is important to check the PSI of a tire before and during a ride to ensure that it is correctly inflated. According to a 2019 survey, only 10% of cyclists check the PSI of their tires before a ride. To ensure safety, it is recommended that cyclists check their tire pressure before every ride.
The Origin of the Term 'PSI' for Cycling
The term 'PSI' is used to describe the pressure of air in bicycle tires and stands for 'pounds per square inch'. The term was first used in the late 1800s in the United States to measure the pressure of air in tires. It was first adopted by the cycling community in the mid 1950s when tire manufacturers began to include the PSI rating on their tires.
The term 'PSI' is now universally used to describe the pressure of air in bicycle tires. It is important to maintain the correct PSI for your tires in order to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. Too much or too little pressure can cause a dangerous situation, as well as reducing the tire’s performance.
