updated 7.29.2024

I will keep updating this post as new methods become available. If you find new methodologies, please let me know via email (VincentVergaraFitness@gmail.com) or use the inquiries form to the right.

Determining Optimal Tire Pressure

I attribute experimenting with tire pressures to my success in autocross. Too high, and it produced too much sliding; too low, and responsiveness and cornering grip deteriorated. For daily driving, where finding the right balance of grip and fuel efficiency is the goal, there were tradeoffs between high and low tire pressures. Higher pressures increased rolling resistance but reduces friction; improving fuel efficiency at the expense of ride comfort and grip, which was evident by the longer braking distances. In contrast, lower pressures produces a smoother ride and shorter braking distances, but the increased friction led to poor fuel economy.

Compared to automobile tires, I quickly learned that the shape and size of a bicycle tire allowed for lower tire pressures without substantially increasing the contact patch. Logically, I thought this would mean that lower is better since it would efficiently dampen road imperfections; however, my stance changed after learning how this study saw a significant increase in rolling resistance with increasing lateral sways. This evidence would suggest that lower tire pressures are more appropriate for rides that are mostly seated and stable, and higher pressures are more appropriate for rides that require more standing and cornering. Currently, no tire pressure calculators account for increased rolling resistance due to lateral sway, so experimentation and testing is still required to determine the optimal tire pressure based on both riding position, cornering demands and road conditions.

METHOD #1 - Frank Berto Method

Published in 2006, I still think this is the best starting point. This method aims to produce a ~15% tire drop, which was found to optimize rolling resistance and cornering performance. This is pdf copy of Frank Berto's article "All About Tire Inflation." Here's a shortened version below:

Weigh yourself carrying your bike (bike + rider).
Measure weight distribution.

Level both weighing scales.
Sit on the bike in your dominant position (hoods, drops or tops).
Record front wheel weight.
Record rear wheel weight.

Check for errors in measurements.

Front wheel weight and rear wheel weight should equal the weight in step one.

Calculate percentage of weight distribution.

Divide front wheel weight by total weight.
Divide rear wheel weight by total weight.

Calculate difference between weight percentages.

Subtract big percentage by smaller percentage. 55% - 45% = 10%

Use chart to determine optimal tire pressure.

Subtract 10% for front wheel.
Add 10% for rear wheel.

METHOD #2: Michelin Chart

Based on your body weight and tire size, use this chart to determine your tire pressure for clincher tires only. Keep in mind that this won't provide suggestions for the front and rear tire, so this likely assumes a 50/50 weight distribution.