Bicycle safety: tire pressure checks and safe e‑bike car transport

Proper tire pressure is essential for bike safety and ride comfort. A simple thumb test—pressing the tyre with the thumb and noting if it deforms more than one centimetre—indicates the need for inflation. The method applies to trekking, city and mountain bikes, while a pressure gauge provides a more accurate reading. Manufacturers' recommended pressures are printed on the tyre sidewall, and riders should verify them regularly, at least every two weeks for racing bikes and according to use for other types.

Transporting an e‑bike with a car requires a carrier designed for the bike's weight, typically 25 kg or more. Roof carriers must respect the vehicle's roof‑load limit, and hitch‑mounted racks are preferred because they handle the load more safely. Drivers must check the vehicle’s permissible vertical load (Stützlast) and the carrier’s load rating, ensure that license plates and rear lights remain visible, and use any required follow‑on plate or lighting. Exceeding the specified load can affect vehicle handling and cause mechanical failure.