Quote Originally Posted by Bruno28
I see what you mean about it being easier to pump when it's 'lined up'....but I'm not sure what I'm lining up with what???
I'm guessing that what happens is that the valve stem can get knocked crooked if the pump chuck (thanks DebW, I wasn't sure what that's called) isn't put on just right, which would probably inhibit airflow. You do have to prime the valve, as DebW and Lisa S.H. described, but gettin' that chuck just right is always an issue for me.

Re: Proper tire pressure for thin road tires-- Does anyone here have access to the RoadBikeRider article archives? I seem to recall an e-newsletter a few months ago that talked about keeping road bike tires inflated to 85-90psi, regardless of what was recommended. I may have to pay for a membership and see if I can find that article. The guy made some interesting comments.