GT Traffic - G Tires and Tubes

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PART 1
4.G Tires and Tubes
Section 4. Tech
GT Bicycle Owner’s Manual
WARNING
Not all bicycles can be safely retrofitted with
some types of suspension systems. Before
retrofitting a bicycle with any suspension,
check with the bicycle’s manufacturer to make
sure that what you want to do is compatible
with the bicycle’s design. Failing to do so can
result in catastrophic frame failure.
4.G Tires and Tubes
WARNING
Some bicycles intended for competition are
fitted with tires that are glued on to specially
made rims. These are called “sew-up” or
“tubular” tires. Properly mounting these tires
requires specialized knowledge and skills. Ask
your dealer to teach you how to mount
tubulars before you attempt it on your own. An
incorrectly installed tubular tire can come off
the rim, causing you to lose control and fall.
1. Tires
Bicycle tires are available in many designs and
specifications, ranging from general-purpose
designs to tires designed to perform best under
very specific weather or terrain conditions. If,
once you’ve gained experience with your new
bike, you feel that a different tire might better
suit your riding needs, your dealer can help you
select the most appropriate design.
The size, pressure rating, and on some
high-performance tires the specific
recommended use, are marked on the sidewall
of the tire (see fig. 17).
The part of this information which is most
important to you is Tire Pressure. But some
wheel rim manufacturers also specify maximum
tire pressure with a label on the rim.
WARNING
Never inflate a tire beyond the maximum
pressure marked on the tire’s sidewall or the
wheel rim.
If the maximum pressure rating for the wheel
rim is lower than the maximum pressure
shown on the tire, always use the lower
rating. Exceeding the recommended
maximum pressure may blow the tire off the
rim or damage the wheel rim, which could
cause damage to the bike and injury to the
rider and bystanders.