How to Use a Presta Valve Adapter On ebike? (Top Tips)


Presta Valve

How to Use a Presta Valve Adapter On ebike? This question is one of the frequently asked questions by beginners in electric or regular bikes, and this question is usually asked if you have an air pump that works with the Schrader only for this, you will need an adapter to be able to use them.

In this post, we will discuss the difference between Presta Valve and Schrader, as well as how to use the adapter.

What is the difference between the Presta Valve & the Schrader valve?

In order to clarify the difference between Presta Valve and Schrader Valve, we must know when to use each of them and also how they work.

Presta Valve.

1-How do Presta Valve work?

The Presta valve works by using a hand-locked nut to trap the air inside.

The air is filled by opening this nut counterclockwise, then using an air pump dedicated to it or using an adapter that fills the air (we will explain how to use the adapter later)

2- How to release air from the Presta valve?

The method of releasing air from the Presta Valve is very easy, all you have to do is loosen the nut counterclockwise and then press the valve inward in order to release the air.

3- Which ebike are using Presta valve the most?

In general, the Presta Valve is used in electric bikes with a narrow rim, any type of it, and if the Presta Valve is more prevalent on electric mountain bikes

Now that we have shared the basic information about the Presta Valve, we will take a quick look at the Schrader Valve

 

Schrader valve.

How does Schrader Valve work?

The schrader valve works by using an internal spring to fill the air while keeping the valve closed This method is considered one of the oldest methods, as it is used in car tires.

How to release air from the Schrader valve?

Unlike the Presta Valve, the release of air from the Schrader valve is a little more difficult, as you will need a very thin needle to insert it into the valve spring and then press inward.

Which ebikes are using Schrader valve the most?

Most electric bikes can use Schrader Valve, but most often Schrader Valve is used with wide-rim electric bikes tires.

Now to facilitate the comparison, I will share with you this table, where it will be clear which type is best for you.

Presta Valve VS the Schrader valve.


Schrader Valve
Presta valve
Working methodInternal Spring
Lock nut

Air Releasing Needs external tool 
doesn’t require any tool

UseUsed mostly in old ebike models or with wide-rim
High-end ebikes with a narrow rim 

As a general rule, Presta Valve is better than Schrader Valve due to ease of use and ease of air release.

 

How to Use a Presta Valve Adapter On ebike?

1- Remove the valve Cap.

Remove the valve Cap.

2-Lose the valve lock nut 

Lose the valve lock nut 

3- Position the adapter so that the large part of the adapter rests on the winder nut and then turn clockwise

 
Position the adapter so that the large part of the adapter rests on the winder nut and then turn clockwise

4-Inflate the tire using the air pump

Inflate the tire using the air pump

5- After inflating the tire you should remove the pump

6-Remove the adapter.

7- Using your fingers, close the nut

8- Place the cap again.

9- Close the external lock nut.

 
Close the external lock nut.

How to Inflate the tire without using the Presta valve adapter?

There are some situations in which you may need to inflate the tire and the Presta adapter may not be available, so I will share with you an easy and simple way that you can inflate the tire without the need for an adapter.

This method relies on using the lower part of the valve cap to do the same work as the adapter.

1- Remove the valve Cap.

Remove the valve Cap.

2-Lose the valve lock nut.

Lose the valve lock nut 

3- Cut off the upper part of the Valve cap.

 
Cut off the upper part of the Valve cap.

4- Turn the cut part upside down and put it on the prest valve lock nuts (same as if you are using the adapter)

Turn the cut part upside down and put it on the prest valve lock nuts (same as if you are using the adapter)

You can complete the rest of the previous steps just as if you were using the adapter.

How to pump the Presta valve?

 

Useful Resources.

How Long Do Ebike Tires Last? (Solved)

Why Is My Ebike Tire Losing Air Overnight? (Explained)

Do e-bikes have tubeless tires? (Explained)

Conclusion.

As a general rule, you can use the Presta valve adapter by loosening the valve lock nut then placing the adapter & tighten it clockwise using your finger after inflating the air you should remove the adapter and lock the internal & external lock nuts.

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