Tires - Helio Electric Cycle Owner's Manual

Tires

Adjusting the pressure
Helio Cycle tires operate in a pressure range. The maximum pressure is 100 PSI
(690kPa.) The minimum pressure is 60 PSI (414kPa.) Tires at maximum pressure
will provide superior handling characteristics, very little rolling resistance and a longer
range but will not provide much cushioning on bumpy or uneven surfaces. Tires at
minimum pressure provide a softer ride, are more susceptible to flats, and create
more rolling resistance thus reducing the riding range. If you want a really efficient
and high-performance (but bumpy) ride, or if you're a large person, keep the tires
inflated to their maximum pressure. If you want a smoother but less efficient ride,
inflate your tires to about 60 PSI (414kPa.)
Helio Cycle tire valves work just like the ones on cars. To add air, remove the cap
and push the air hose or pump fitting onto the end of the valve stem. To remove air,
depress the pin in the center of the valve stem.
This is the part where we warn you about losing an eye: DO NOT
OVERINFLATE THE TIRES! If you over-inflate your tire, you could cause it to
explode. Besides being alarmingly loud, it could put your eye out, which is, of
course, a severe injury.
It is very easy to over-inflate your tires with a filling station air line. Use a
high-pressure bicycle floor pump with a pressure gauge instead. If you must
use a filling station air line, add air in short bursts.
If you ride with your tire pressure too low for your weight or for the riding
conditions, you dramatically increase your chances of getting a flat tire,
especially when riding on bumpy surfaces.
Tire pumps with built-in high-pressure tire gauges are inexpensive. Any
bicycle shop will be glad to sell you one. Before you buy, make sure it is
compatible with Schrader-type valves and that the gauge measures pressure
up to at least 100 PSI (690kPa.) If you already have a pump but it doesn't
include a tire gauge, we recommend that you at least buy an accurate gauge.
Repairing a flat tire
Sooner or later you'll run over something sharp and get a flat. Repairing a puncture is
relatively easy. However, if you are unsure of your ability to complete the repair
procedure or if you simply don't want to do it yourself, you local bicycle shop can
handle the repair for a small fee. Be sure to provide this manual to them so they will
know the procedure for installing the rear wheel and adjusting belt tension.
Most flats happen while you're out riding around in the world. Carrying a
compact pump, a few tools and a spare tube can get you home in an
emergency.
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