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Be sure the pump you are using has a Presta head on it. If your pump doesn't have both, an adapter is available at bike shops for around a dollar.
The Presta valve must be manually unscrewed before attempting to inflate, to permit airflow in either direction. The screw, located at the tip of the valve, remains within the valve housing even after it is unscrewed; unscrewing the valve permits the plug to move up and down within the housing. It must be unscrewed before attaching a tire pump.

Once unscrewed, tap the tip of the valve to allow a small bit of air to escape to release the air seal in the valve.

With the pump in place, lock the pump head on with the lever on the pump. Most pumps will be locked with the lever in the up position.
As an added measure, before pumping, you might brace the valve by hooking one finger around the valve to reduce the chance of damaging it during inflation.

Pump with a slow, strong and steady motion to reduce fatigue (yours) until the desired tire pressure is reached. Change the lever to the unlock position to remove it.

Once the tire pump is removed, the valve should be screwed down to prevent accidental air leakage. A screw cap provides protection to the valve top, although the cap is not necessary to keep air from leaking.

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8y ago

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