Valve Basics
The three common bicycle valves are Presta, Schrader, and Dunlop. Each differs in diameter, core design, and pressure range, which affects pump head compatibility and sealing.
Knowing your valve type improves inflation speed, pressure accuracy, and seal reliability. It also keeps delicate valve cores safe from bending or unthreading during pumping.
Presta
Narrow, lightweight, common on road and performance bikes. Unscrew the tiny top nut before pumping and press briefly to unstick. Handles high pressure well and fits narrow rim holes.
Best with: high‑pressure road tires and tubeless setups with removable cores. For longevity, use thread‑on chucks and flex hoses, and avoid side loads that can loosen or break the core.
Schrader
Car‑style valve, wider and robust, common on MTBs, hybrids, and kids' bikes. Easy access to air and gauges at gas stations and workshops.
Best with: lower pressures and high‑volume tires. The wider core flows more air, which helps seat tubeless beads with booster pumps and reduces pump strokes for plus‑size tires.
Dunlop (Woods)
Popular in parts of Europe. Requires specific pump heads or an adapter. Seals well but can be confusing where less common. If your pump won't seal, check that you have the right Dunlop chuck or a compatible adapter installed.
Adapters and Pump Heads
- Dual‑head pumps fit both Presta and Schrader; many mini and floor pumps include them.
- Presta→Schrader adapter: lets you use car‑style chucks and gas station air on Presta tubes.
- Dunlop adapters: ensure correct sealing and bite depth; follow maker instructions.
- Thread‑on heads protect valve cores and give better high‑pressure control than lever heads.
Avoiding Leaks and Damage
Support the valve with two fingers while pumping to protect the core. Keep strokes straight and avoid bending forces. For removable cores, snug gently with a core tool—over‑tightening can damage threads.
Replace cracked lock nuts and worn pump gaskets. If the chuck pops off under pressure, switch to a thread‑on solution.
Troubleshooting
- Air escapes instantly: Presta top nut closed or core loose; open the nut and tap to unstick, then retighten the core.
- Chuck won't seal: wrong head, missing adapter, or hardened gasket; replace or lubricate the seal.
- Pressure stalls: Tubeless bead not seated or head leaking; re‑seat the pump head and consider removing the valve core for higher flow.