If you are a cyclist or a mountain biker, then you understand you must know how to remove Presta valve core. This knowledge can save you from taking those stressful and expensive trips to the bike repair shop.
Interestingly, as a biker, it’s almost impossible to avoid a situation where you have to remove your Presta valve core. Not to worry, we will tell you all about how to remove the tire valve. We will also tell you factors that can facilitate the valve core’s removal. From mentioning the proper tools you need to detailing the steps you must follow, you can trust us not to leave anything unsaid.
So, ride along with us as we delve into the world of Presta valve stem removal.
A Presta valve is a popular valve that is used on tubeless bike tires. It allows pumping air into the tire. It consists of two parts: an inner body and an outer stem. The outer part of the Presta valve is rather narrow (6mm), especially when compared to other models like the Schrader valve (8mm). The length can vary. The narrow diameter of the valve implies the smaller holes on the bike rims. So they work best on narrow wheels without sacrificing strength.
Keep in mind that Presta and Schrader valves are not interchangeable due to differences in inner tube sizes.
It is a tool designed specifically for Presta valves. It can be easily attached to the valve and remove the core. They cost around $15 and are available in most bike stores.
There are a lot of things that go into removing the Presta valve core. For example, you have to know whether your valve core is removable or not. Also, you have to know the right tools you need for the removal. Below, we will discuss everything that can help you get the job done.
Not all of the Presta valve cores are removable. But how to tell if the Presta valve has a removable core? There are a few things you must look out for. Firstly, you need to check the valve stem. The valve will feature two parts; lower and upper if its core is removable. Typically, the upper part will be much shorter. Plus, it will insert into the lower part.
Another way to identify a removable Presta valve core is by checking the colors. Sometimes, the valve core and the stem spot different colors.
If you’ve been thinking about how to remove Presta valve core without tool, try to dismiss the thought because it’s very inefficient and frustrating. Here are the tools you’ll need to remove the Presta valve core:
You can’t learn Presta valve core or stem removal without knowing when to do the removal. Generally, two factors trigger the removal of a Presta valve core. The first one is the need to replace the core with a new one and the second is the need to add sealant to a tubeless tire.
Even if you’ve got the best gravel bikes in your garage, you will need to replace their valve cores at some point. And it’s important to know how to replace the Presta valve.
Moreover, if you don’t take the Presta valve core out when applying sealant, you will most likely frustrate the process. So, it would be better if you avoided an uncomfortable process.
As promised, here is a step-by-step guide on Presta valve core removal:
The number one step toward removing the core of the Presta valve is to prepare the necessary tools. You can forget about an efficient and comfortable Presta valve core removal without a tool. Usually, a remover tool will come with your Presta valve and it can provide great help when removing the core.
However, if yours got lost or your bike did not come with one, you will need to buy one from the store. According to most reviews, the JACO Tubeless Presta Valve Stem Replacement Kit offers excellent value. Not only does it come with an aluminum valve tool, but it also boasts Presta valve stems, spare valve cores, and dust caps.
Alternatively, you can consider the Frienda Valve Core Remover Tool Kit which also enjoys the approval of many buyers. Apart from a valve core remover made of aluminum alloy, this kit features 10 pieces of valve cores made of brass.
In case you want simpler alternatives, you can buy a regular remover tool and pliers at your local store. Learning how to remove the Presta valve core with pliers is not difficult as you might have thought. Just ensure that the pliers and the tool fit your bike’s Presta valve core.
Once you get all the necessary tools ready, you can proceed to the next step and get your tire valve core replacement done.
The second step is to deflate your bike tire. To do that, rotate the Presta valve core a bit in the left or anticlockwise direction. Then, press down on the core’s top area. Next, put your thumb in the tip of the valve core and press it for only a few seconds to be sure that it is deflating. Keep pressing until you see that your bike tire is completely deflated.
When executing this step, ensure that you do not apply too much pressure. Too much pressure poses a risk to the health of the Presta valve core. Also, you should close the core tip after deflating the bike tire. Simply twist the Presta valve core in the right or clockwise direction and tighten it with pliers.
Once the bike tire is deflated, it is time to unlock the lock nut. The spherical nut is typically visible beneath the valve core but some cores don’t include it. If you have the nut beneath your valve core, you should remove it by twisting it until it comes off. In this case, you don’t need pliers or any other tool.
If your valve core doesn’t have the spherical lock nut, you don’t have to worry about unlocking something that doesn’t exist; proceed to the next step.
It’s time for your Presta valve stem removal tool to get to work. Here, you need to insert the tool into the valve core. The tool should have a small and large portion that can fit into the core. Once you’re good with the tool, make the bike tire stay in a straight posture. Hold the tire in that position with one hand and use the other hand to insert the tool into the valve core.
Now that you have the tool attached to the valve core, gently twist the whole core. Twist the core until the Presta valve drops out in your hand.
Although it’s not recommended you can use not only the Presta valve core remover if there’s no other way around it.
These can be found in any household. It is not a perfect solution due to possible valve head damage but if done carefully, you can avoid the damage. You need to take the head of the valve with pliers, then twist it counterclockwise for loosening it and clockwise for tightening.
Advanced cyclists often have this tool in possession too so if you have one, try doing this: Slot the head of the valve core into the end of the chain tool and do the same steps as explained previously (twist counterclockwise for loosening and clockwise for tightening).
We understand we might have left out a few questions unanswered. Below, we will answer some important questions people ask.
Little by little the sealant of your tire starts blocking the airway around the spring-loaded pin of the valve. That’s why a pin gets stuck and it’s almost impossible or at least hard to inflate or deflate the tire.
Yes, you can save money on valve cores in tubeless bikes. There is no need to opt for a fancy and expensive valve core because the generic, cheap ones like the best Presta valve core can get the job done.
They are quite durable but can break over time but they are not known for being of low quality. Make sure you don’t bend the valve when removing the core or it can break.
No, you can’t. But you can use a new valve core. Just remove the broken valve core and screw in a new core. Avoid stripping the thread or damaging the rim tape.
You can length them using extenders. It is necessary if you have deeper rims like the ones on aerodynamic race bikes.
Yes, you get to replace the removable valve core in the case of a malfunction Trusted Source Bicycle Safety: Bike Safety Tips for Kids and Adults | NHTSA Learn bicycle safety tips for kids and parents to avoid crashes between cyclists and vehicles, and reduce death and injuries on the road. www.nhtsa.gov and continue to use the tube. An irremovable core does not offer such a luxury.
Most times, Presta valve cores are interchangeable because they are the same size but that does not mean Presta valves do not vary in size and shape. In fact, these valves vary in size for different types of rims. A mere look at the best gravel wheels will tell you as much.
There is no specific “valve torque”. So, all you need to do is tighten the Presta valve core until you feel that it is secure. Check for air leaks as advised Trusted Source Maintaining your bicycle | NSW Government Follow our tips on keeping your bicycle in good working order for safer riding. Regular maintenance schedules and repairs are important. www.nsw.gov.au by the New South Wales government. Once there are none, you are good.
Frankly, removing the Presta valve core is not complicated as you might have made yourself believe. Truly, there are a few steps involved but they are not difficult to understand and master. To make the process easy for yourself you need to make all the right tools available before proceeding to remove the valve core.
Once you’ve done that, you can move on to deflating the bike tire, unlocking the lock nut, attaching the tool to the valve core, and twisting the core to get it out. With our step-by-step guide, learning how to remove Presta valve core is a breeze. Whether you are an experienced biker or a beginner riding one of the best beginner road bikes we’ve reviewed, this guide can help you remove your Presta valve core.
