Originally Posted by
kenshireen
I have a Spin Doctor (Performance) tire gauge. The ONLY problem and the MAJOR problem is when I test my tire I lose significant air when I depress the gauge onto my presta valve,
Is this common for all tire gauges because it really makes it a waste of time..
It's common.
I pump my tire up to 110 using my pump gauge and then when I want to double check with the tire gauge I lose 5-10 pounds.
That's enough to make you slower on a lot of pavement, and regardless you're compromising comfort. Use a wider tire if your weight dictates that with narrow ones. Most road bikes made in the last 20 years will clear 25mm tires, and contemporary disc brake bikes fit 32mm which is the widest size the fastest tires are sold in.
Get a pump with a built in gauge and note how long it takes your tires to deflate to an unacceptable level.
With 25mm wide tires I start Monday at 80-85 front/90-95 rear, and add air the next week at 70-75/80-85. Less is sufficient to prevent pinch flats but the front feels squishy riding.
