Stupid Question ahead - I suck at pumping up my tires!

[indysteel]

Here's a link with some pictures of presta valves (and a short explanation on how to use a valve adapter).

http://www.matthewsbikes.com/techcorner/prestavalve.htm

[Bklynmom]

This is some of the most helpful advice I've had in a long time. Today I actually correctly filled the tires on my road bike without mishap or frustration. Thanks for the instructions, and especially thanks to the woman who asked the question - I was too emarrassed to ask

Lisa

[stacie13]

My pump is supposed to work on both types of valves - a Serfas pump, looked it up online. And I just had my first fairly successful pumping session!

Lisa - glad I could share in the embarassment!

This is my pump:
http://www.serfas.com/pumps/FP-200_B.shtml

[Laterider21958]

My thanks to makbike, Kano and indysteel for their replies to my request. I now know much more about valves and how to use them.

It seems the pumps I have will adapt to either, and I have been using the correct connection. I think it must be my lack of technique that is causing the problems. I'll keep working on that.

[stacie13]

Laterider - just like GLC1968 says, practice! I am starting to get the hang of it too. It is totally my technique I'm sure of it. Good luck!

[roguedog]

I had this issue too. Really frustrating. Then I got a Silca pump and my life is much better. I think it's their "nozzle" ? that makes it easier. There's not really anyway for the air to leak out since their "nozzle"? kinda swallows the valve.

Stupid proof. Perfect for me.

[lizbids]

Hahaha I thought I was the only one who had a Presta-shock when I got my new bike. I like the Schraeders better....is there any benefit to a Presta valve? I find them annoying, to be honest, but maybe if I new a little more about them, I'd appreciate them more?

[GLC1968]

My pump is supposed to work on both types of valves - a Serfas pump, looked it up online. And I just had my first fairly successful pumping session!

Lisa - glad I could share in the embarassment!

This is my pump:
http://www.serfas.com/pumps/FP-200_B.shtml

Stacie - I have that same pump. It's our 4th pump in 2 years because all the other ones we've tried had issues. So far, this one is great though!

There is no adapter...both types of valves fit into the opening and work on the fly. You do have to get the hang of getting the skinny presta valves in the opening correctly. I've been using it for months and I still occasionally get it on where no air goes in. When that happens, start over. Use a firm hand, but don't jam it on there. Keep practicing and you'll get it!