I know, this seems like such a basic thing, but I can't seem to do it right. I bought a bike withe the thinner stems on the wheels, the kind you screw out the little brass part and then put this pump on. Then I bought a nice stand up pump that you push on the valve and pull back the thing to lock it on. (I know these are not real good technical terms, I'm hoping you can follow me). At my LBS they said I needed to check my air and top it off before every ride but I"m afraid I'm doing more damage than good.

I've been struggling with this pump for about 4 months, I pinch my fingers releasing the clamp to get the pump off, it's so high pressure it snaps back on me. Sometimes I don't get it on all the way and the air doesn't go all the way in. Most recently I managed to knock my bike over with the pump clamped on, I bent the valve on my tire, and in trying to straighten it broke the skinny end off.

So, my question is, do you have any tips that will make pumping my tires easier? Can I replace my valve myself, or do I need to visit my LBS?

I freely admit I find it embarrassing to admit how inelegant I am with a bike pump, that seems like such a basic thing to be able to do!