More Bike CO2 Inflator Tips

0:13 Quickly warm up the CO2 inflator nozzle to make it easier to remove.
1:02 Prevent accidental removal of presta valve core.
4:22 How to know when you have the correct tire pressure.
5:05 CO2 cartridge size.
In a previous video we gave you some tips on how to use a CO2 cartridge to inflate a bike tire while cycling out on the road. Here a few more tips and tricks:
When filling a tube with a CO2 cartridge, the inflator head becomes very cold and difficult to work with. Rather then waiting a few minutes, squirt with a little water from your water bottle to warm it up quickly.
Most bike tire tubes are made up of a stem into which is threaded a valve core (picture). If not tight, when you unscrew the bicycle CO2 inflator, the core may also unscrew, causing the tire to go flat again. Solution? Tighten the valve core using either a valve core tool such as the Park VC-1 or similar tool (costs about $10). Or, if you have an inexpensive spoke wrench tool, you'll find that one of the wrenches works just fine. Tighten the core before storing the tube in your saddle bag. The tool is also great for removing the core if you are adding sealant to a mtb tire. Another option is to go with a tube that does not have a removable core such as Bontrager or Michelin.
Prevent over filling tire with CO2 but feeling tire as you inflate. When using a pump at home, get a feel for the correct inflation pressure when using a floor pump. Although different size tires require different size CO2 cartridges, don't rely on the grams of the cartridge alone. Some tires of the same size may require more or less CO2 to reach the pressure you normally run. In addition, if helping others on the road, their tires maybe different from yours. See our article in the description below:
docs.google.com/document/d/1I...
Whether your riding a road bike, mountain bike or just touring, a CO2 inflater can save you time in fixing that flat tire.

[@tony10speed]

Not all Co@ inflators work with schrader valves. Here are some references: roadbikeaction.com/what-is-it-co2-cartridge/ www.liveabout.com/all-about-co2-cartridges-and-inflators-for-your-bike-tires-365496

[@jm96mx]

It's easy to find a schrader inflator, just search for a model marketed for use in a motorcycle or ATV.

[@Saddletramp1200]

I saw the math between the pump and the C02 and I am going to find the mini pump. It would take a cartridge the size of a coffee thermos to fill my tires.😕🕶️

[@tony10speed]

@@Saddletramp1200 Are you trying to fill a mountain bike tire? The cartridges come in varying sizes. See: docs.google.com/document/d/1kUOBQ6VASCZxV2zojjLHZFZ7Y4ueiKKH5j56Te26btI/edit?usp=sharing Regards, Tony

[@Saddletramp1200]

@@tony10speed I have 26 x 2.25 tires. After watching several videos I have come to the conclusion that it will be better if I buy a pump. I'm trying to find a small one. I don't want junk but I don't have Park tool money. any advice would be great.

[@tony10speed]

@@Saddletramp1200 I have a Pro Bike mini pump for my mountain bike that actually works. It has a valve extender tube inside that you take out and attach to the end giving you a flexible tube to attach to a Presta or Schrader valve. It is compact and fits in my jersey back pocket. For Presta valves with removable cores, extra care should be taken to tightly screw the core into the valve stem (I bought an inexpensive Presta / Schrader valve tool that I use on all my tires and spares. I remove the core, put some Loctite Red on the valve threads and tighten firmly). See: www.amazon.com/Pro-Bike-Tool-Presta-Schrader/dp/B019V1PW5G/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=12NE9NJH1NVIN&dchild=1&keywords=pro+bike+mini+pump+with+gauge+fits+presta&qid=1593619172&sprefix=probike+mini%2Caps%2C169&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExODBRWUNQQktLRjZEJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMDkxOTUzM1cxTzYxMlNJNUVIOCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjAxMDIyWEgxT0dVQ0w5NTI4JndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ== Regards, Tony

[@englishrogue2649]

Dear Tony: Your tips for ensuring the valve core stays are in place are excellent!

[@tony10speed]

Thank you. Also visit our KZbin home site at: kzbin.info Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@asianbumz]

Thanks for the tips, Mr. Marchand! Very helpful!

[@tony10speed]

These are tips I have relied on. Glad you found them useful. Regards, Tony

[@gordonmculloch4904]

Great tips. Thanks for uploading. Cheers 👍👍

[@tony10speed]

You're Welcome. Also visit our KZbin home site at: kzbin.info Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@andygarwood6712]

Excellent Tony, esp the valve core problem. Thought it was just me that experienced this. Thank you

[@tony10speed]

You're Welcome. Also visit our KZbin home site at: kzbin.info Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@Saddletramp1200]

I have the mini pump on the way. Got the titanium as I like pretty bikes & tools. Thanks again.

[@zebeddy]

The glue tip for the valve will save me so many headaches! Thank you :)

[@tony10speed]

Me too. Use the Loctite Red and tighten with a valve tool (they are very inexpensive). Regards, Tony

[@filmic1]

Nice set of tips, Tony. Thank you! (I have those Gator Skin's on my GTZR 3.0.)

[@tony10speed]

You're Welcome. Also visit our KZbin home site at: kzbin.info Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@larryblackmon2341]

Not kidding about the cold they create. Once, I had to change my inner tube in the rain. This was a commute ride so I used the CO2 for time. My full finger gloves was soaked and then froze. Remembering what my Grandpa and Dad taught me with surviving the cold; I put the whole thing in my arm pit.

[@tony10speed]

Good idea (long as you're wearing a jacket).

[@alphacharlie65ms]

Nice tips

[@tony10speed]

You're welcome. Regards, Tony

[@ds94703]

Thanks for the tips Tony. I had the valve core pop out one time, and I thought I was dead, I save the entire valve of any tube I'm about to throw out. I now tighten the valve core with a needle nose pliars at home when I change out the tube. By the way, when changing tires, its also a good time to tighten. I never thought of the locktite trick. However, I would add that Blue locktite will work as well as red. I was wondering if the co2 freezes up more frequently in humid climates. in either case, waiting a few minutes before unscrewing the inflator might work. The water trick is another excellent idea. There are just too many things you learn if you've been around the block. Thanks again for sharing those tipw!

[@tony10speed]

I, myself, am constantly learning. It's what makes it interesting and fun. Thanks for your observations and comment. Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@discodave6153]

Loctite is a great tip thanks 👌🏻

[@tony10speed]

You're Welcome. Also visit our KZbin home site at: kzbin.info Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@Saddletramp1200]

Thanks Tony. You took my thunder. I was all set to say use Loctite Blue. If you use red it's very doubtful it will ever come apart again.

[@tony10speed]

I think they put the presta together this way because it's easier to manufacture. I use the Loctite Red because I rarely need to remove the presta valve (I only do this when using valve extenders on aero wheels with very wide rims if I can't get a tube with a long enough vavle). Regards, Tony

[@Saddletramp1200]

@@tony10speed Must be a thing for tires today. I got a flat tire in my driveway. I'm ok with that. Better here than on the road. it's hot in Houston TX. Why is it Always the rear🤔😂🕶️

[@Saddletramp1200]

Also, I am 65 and been riding all my life. Since I am fairly well educated I request an awnser for something I have never been able to solve. The front tire always gets there first and the rear tire follows the front tires path. Why in Hell does the rear tire always go flat. it defies the law of motion. Bwwwaaahhhaaa 🕶️😂

[@tony10speed]

@@Saddletramp1200 Some say it's "Murphy Law" but there may be a real reason. 1. There is more weight distributed over the rear tire then the front. 2. Your rear tire wears faster then the front. Check the tire for wear.. Over the years I have learned that my particular Gatorskin tires need to be replaced every 3000 miles, and that's what I do, even if they don't look worn. 3. As a pre-ride or post-ride check, check your tires for embedded debris or glass, cuts, or bulges indicating that you need to change your tires now. 4. You never want to run the tires at the maximum PSI (look at the side wall of the tire you're running) since there will not be any give when you hit a rough spot. Here's how I set my tire pressure: sites.google.com/site/bicycletirepressure/ All this may not prevent flats, but may make them less frequent. Regards, Tony

[@dabul808]

Good to know on the loctite.

[@tony10speed]

It has worked well for me. On all new tube and spares, I remove the valve core, add the Loctite and fasten as tight as possible. Eliminates the problem of the core coming out when removing the CO2 cartridge/inflator.

[@jpoodle]

My CO2 inflator is very similar to yours, correct me if I'm wrong here, you are supposed to thread the inflator on the tube valve before puncturing the co2 to prevent leakage yes? Nice video.

[@tony10speed]

Yes, for a CO2 inflator without a valve shut off lever. Those with a shut off valve such as I used in the video, you can puncture the CO2 cartridge as long as the valve is in the off position and then attach to the Presta valve. You should not get leakage - that's the whole point of the valve lever. Good question. Thanks and safe cycling, Tony

[@AFV85]

There's a nice one called Jet valve co2 inflaitor it's a push seal lock not threaded so this type of thing doesn't happen especially if your running a sealant

[@tony10speed]

That is true and the Jet system appears to be a good co2 inflation system. Just a couple of things to add: Make sure that the Presta valve used on the tire or tube is "smooth" and not treaded (I'm not taking about the cartridge). As with floor pumps, putting this type of the co2 inflator on a threaded Presta valve will quickly shred the push on portion of the inflator. So, pay attention to the valve you use. Not all sealants used for tubeless tires are compatible with use of co2. Even then, there are precautions and tips you should know about when using co2 with tubeless containing sealant. See this nice review: velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-racing/technical-faq-tire-sealant-questions/ Thanks for your input and safe cycling, Tony

[@junboo8730]

Thanks, I received mine 3 days ago

[@tony10speed]

What make? Let me know if you have occasion to use it. Regards, Tony

[@junboo8730]

Tony Marchand It’s Lezyne. It is really small I‘m waiting for more cartridges to test it. I only have one cartridge and running ha. I bought a new bike like 3 days ago.

[@tony10speed]

@@junboo8730 If it's the Lezyne Trigger D.rive, it should give you good control of the CO2 release. When you get more cartridges, give it a try before taking it on the road. Let me know how you make out. Regards, Tony

[@junboo8730]

Tony Marchand Lezyne control drive, sorry. Yes I will let you know. Thank you for your great videos.

[@junboo8730]

Tony Marchand It arrived. Right now I can’t get to seal the schrader valve. When I open the Co2 disperse everywhere. I don’t understand this ha.

[@user-vn9js9yn1j]

How do u carry co2 cartridge in summer hot days? Does it ever have any chance to explode? How do you store it to prevent explosion?

[@tony10speed]

Good question. The short answer is no. However, if the CO2 cartridge is heated to a high enough temperature, the soft metal seal in the neck can melt and the stored CO2 can escape forcefully. If the cartridge is free to move, it will move, possibly forcefully as the gas escapes out the neck and strike you. The literature states that a CO2 cartridge can explode when the temperature is above 87.9 degrees but many of us have ridden in temperatures of 100 to 105 with no problem (of course the cartridges are protected inside the saddle bag) and I have yet to learn of such an explosion. However, with that said, I would not recommend leaving the CO2 cartridge out in the sun nor locked in your car in the baking heat where temperatures can reach upward of 175 degrees. Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@shmiggel0921]

Do you have any tips on how to avoid accidentally removing the valve core in the first place? Is it just the water technique to cool it down?

[@tony10speed]

Yes. See: Prep the presta core before installing the tube on the tire. Do the same for your spares that you carry. See: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3Kap2CDoq2pgLM in the video. Removing and prepping the valve core with Loctite and tightening with the valve core tool works like a charm. Regards, Tony

[@danobanks8999]

I have Specialized Roubaix Pro 30-32 tires. I've had to switch to the CO2 cartridge from a hand held pump. I can't get the tire (front and rear) to seat using the hand held as I cannot get enough pressure into the tire. The CO2 is definitely better overall. What can I take on my rides to help a tire re-seat easily instead of having the "pop" into place?

[@tony10speed]

The CO2 should usually "pop" the bead in place. Make sure the CO2 cartridge is compatible with the tire sealant and the cartridge is of sufficient size for inflation. The only other alternative, if the bead becomes unseated when you get a flat, is to carry an inner tube with you. See GNC's video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubeaSBhdeFjrs Does anyone else have other ideas? Regards and safe cycling, Tony

[@LRS7B]

Can you connect the cartridge to the inflator and then store it on your bike? Or can you only connect them once ready to use? Cheers

[@tony10speed]

You can connect if before the ride but I do not advise it. The lever may accidently get pressed knocking around inside your saddle bag or you may accident jar it if attached to the frame - leaking out CO2. Regards, Tony

[@LRS7B]

Tony Marchand The Lezyne is a twist activation so no chance of accidentally deploying. As long as I can store the complete unit on my frame, that’s fantastic 😊

[@tony10speed]

@@LRS7B True, but it puts a lot of pressure on the valve twist end (especially if it's plastic). Why not attach just part way (so as to hold on to the end of the cartridge but not puncture it - but be sure it's on enough not to fall off). When you're to use, twist the cartridge on the rest of the way. Either way, hopefully you'll rarely need it and have a great time cycling. Regards, Tony

[@LRS7B]

Tony Marchand Your idea to twist just shy of puncturing the cartridge sounds like the solution I’ve been looking for! I may apply a piece of tape across the cartridge and inflator just in case it comes loose as not to lose the inflator. I like to keep my body free and pockets empty when I ride 😊

[@stanleyscott8672]

Do you have a preference as to which CO2 inflator you prefer?

[@tony10speed]

Yes. The Briskmore and Pro Bike Tool have small units that screw onto the cartridge and are easy to control. You place a sleeve around the cartridge to protect your hands from frost bite before you place it in your saddle bag. Pro Bike also makes a canister storage version which I have and used with great success.

[@dpstrial]

I would rather relay on a mini-pump than a CO2 inflator out on the road. If you struggle to re-inflate a tyre you might run out of cartridges.

[@tony10speed]

There is a lot to be said for that. I carry a mini-pump (as well as 2 cartridges) just in case. On one ride, one cartridge failed, used the other to fix a flat for some one else, then I got a flat myself. Luckily, I had the mini-pump. Regards, Tony

[@dpstrial]

@@tony10speed thank you for your reply. I don't use CO2 at all. I know some riders use it to seat tubeless tyres, but after a year's trial with that system, I reverted to Conti 4 Seasons, which rarely give me flats.

[@tony10speed]

@@dpstrial Conti is a good tire. I use Continental Gatorskins and got my first flat in 5 years last week. The tire only had 1000 miles on it. Never know. Regards, Tony