Q&A for How to Measure a Bicycle Wheel

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  • Question
    What size tires are usable on trek 26x2.0 rim?
    Ikaika Cox
    Bicycle Mechanic
    Ikaika Cox is the Shop Director at the Salt Lake City branch Bicycle Collective in Salt Lake City, Utah. He has been a bike mechanic since 2012, beginning as a volunteer with the Provo Bicycle Collective, and growing and honing his skills as a bicycle mechanic and educator in multiple Bicycle Collective locations over the years. He now leads the Salt Lake City branch of the Bicycle Collective.
    Bicycle Mechanic
    Expert Answer
    You can use any 26" (559 mm ISO) tire. However, you also need to consider the clearance inside your frame, which can vary. Your frame needs to be wide enough to fit the tire you choose. For example, if you have a 26x1.75 tire now but want to switch to a 26x2.35 tire, you'll need to make sure your frame is wide enough. Otherwise, you might get some rubbing on the tire, which can generate heat and risk your tire blowing out. Additionally, it can wear down the metal of your frame. To find out the maximum size your frame can fit, measure it, then subtract .5" or 10 mm. This leaves enough clearance for mud and dirt, as well as your tire.
  • Question
    How do I remove the paint dot from my garage floor?
    Community Answer
    Use brake fluid. Let it soak for a few minutes, then scratch it off with your nail or a rough sponge, SOS pad, etc. Paint thinner will work as well.
  • Question
    Can I replace a 700/25 tire with a 700/26 on a road bike?
    Community Answer
    Almost definitely. The only real issue when going to a wider tire is clearance around the frame, but such a small difference shouldn't be a problem.
  • Question
    How many pounds of pressure should there be in a bike tire?
    Community Answer
    Proper tire pressure lets your bike roll quickly, ride smoothly, and fend off flats. Narrow tires need more air pressure than wide ones: Road tires typically require 80 to 130 psi (pounds per square inch); mountain tires, 30 to 50 psi; and hybrid tires, 50 to 70 psi.
  • Question
    What can I do to calibrate my bicycle computer if it has 27.5 inch wheels?
    Community Answer
    Put the bike on a flat surface, like your garage floor. Roll the wheel until the valve stem is at the bottom. Mark the floor beside the valve stem. Roll the bike straight one revolution until the valve stem is at the bottom again, and mark the floor. Measure between the marks; inches x 25.4 will give you mm. Most cycle computers want to know the mms traveled per revolution. To reset the computer, press the buttons in for 10 seconds, or remove and reinsert the battery.
  • Question
    How do I measure rim width?
    Community Answer
    Use a ruler or measuring tape. If you only have a ruler, then measure the diameter and multiply by 3.14.
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