Bicycle Valves shop the largest and most affordable!

Everything You Need to Know About Bicycle Valves

A bicycle valve may seem like a small component, but it is essential for the operation of your bike tire. It ensures that your tire remains properly inflated and that no air escapes. But what bicycle valve types are there, and which valve fits your bike tire? Below, you will read everything about the different options and how to choose the right valve.

What Types of Bicycle Valves Are There?

There are three types of bicycle valves that you will encounter most often: the Dutch valve (also known as Dunlop valve), the Presta valve (also known as French valve), and the Schrader valve (the same as a car valve). Each type has its own characteristics and applications.

• Dutch Valve (Dunlop Valve): This is the most common bicycle valve in the Netherlands, especially on city bikes. It is easy to use and can be inflated with most bike pumps. Do you have a leaking valve? Then you can often replace just the inner part instead of the whole valve.
• French Valve (Presta Valve): This slim valve is mainly used on racing bikes and some mountain bikes. It can handle higher air pressure, which is ideal for narrow tires. However, you need to use a pump that is specifically suitable for Presta valves or purchase an adapter.
• Car Valve (Schrader Valve): This valve resembles what you find on car tires. It is sturdy and easy to use with wider tires such as those on mountain bikes or e-bikes. This valve can often also be inflated at a gas station.

How Do I Choose the Right Bicycle Valve?

When choosing a bicycle valve, it is important to consider the type of bike and tire you are working with. Do you have a city bike? Then a Dutch valve is often the standard. Are you riding a racing bike? Then it is likely that you need a Presta valve. For wider tires, such as those on a mountain bike, you usually choose a Schrader valve.

Do you need an inner tube and want to buy a new valve? Then pay close attention to the diameter of the valve hole in your rim. Schrader valves are thicker than Presta valves and Dutch valves. If the valve does not fit through the hole, you probably have the wrong type of valve.

How Do I Replace a Bicycle Valve?

If your valve is leaking or damaged, you can usually replace it. With a Dutch valve, you often only need to replace the inner part. For a Presta or Schrader valve, you usually replace the entire inner tube, as the valve is attached to the tube. Want to buy a bicycle valve? Always check what type of valve you need before purchasing a bicycle valve to avoid coming home with the wrong valve.

Can I Inflate My Valve with Any Pump?

Not every bike pump fits every bicycle valve. Many modern bike pumps have a dual head or an adjustable connection, allowing you to inflate multiple valve types. Do you have a pump that does not fit? Then you can use an adapter, for example, to inflate a Presta valve with a standard pump.

Where Can I Buy a Bicycle Valve?
At Hollandbikeshop, you will find standard bicycle valves, as well as various other handy parts and accessories. Extension Valves are ideal for high rims and make inflating your tire easy, even if you have difficulty reaching the valve.

Bicycle Valve Caps protect your valve from dirt and moisture and prevent leakage. With Adapter Valves, you can adjust your bike pump to make it suitable for other valve types. Bicycle Valve Tools are perfect for replacing or tightening valve cores. All these accessories and parts can be found at Hollandbikeshop.com. This way, you ensure that your bicycle valves always function optimally.