Quote Originally Posted by run it, ride it
How DO you inflate/deflate via presta valves? Do you need a special pump attachment?

Gee - this is the first time I've given advice on these forums!

Well, you undo the little brass nut at the top of the valve (it will be screwed part way down). You think you are going to let the air out of the tyre - but you won't. if you press the little brass pin like thing sticking out of the valve this will let out a little air and show the valve is working.

Most pumps have a presta valve setting which is basically a rubber washer with the smallest dimension hole of all the variations avaiable on the pump adaptors. You then put the pump on the valve to the bit where theres a smooth, unthreaded ridge. Then you pump til you feel like you are about to explode and wonder if you should swallow your pride and ask your male neighbour for help.

ONe tip - when attaching the pump to the valve, the lever on the pump acts the opposite way to a car pump - you attach it with the lever down and flick it up to lock it on the valve. I spent ages trying to attach the pump when it was locked shut at the opening to let the air into the tyres.

I'm sorry if this has confused you even more but I'm not very technical.

Just noticed kalidurga has explained this more succinctly - but you can have the benefit of my experience anyway!

BTW I'm glad it's not just me - I thought these Presta things had arrived in the thirty years since I last cycled but seems they are a relatively recent thing.

PS my bike shop never thought to mention the presta thing to me either.