I am in my learning curve. What is the recommended tire pressure for A 1918 Roadster?
30 x 3 = 60-65 lbs.
Donald -- Your car came with two different sizes of tires, 30x3" on the front and 30x3-1/2" on the rear. The "rule of thumb" is 20 psi per inch of width, so that would be 60 lbs in front and 70 in back. I usually go with 55 and 65, but there's no real reason for that, other than that 70 seems like a lot.
The main thing is to have them (and keep them) inflated high to keep the tires from slipping on the rims, which can shear off the valve stem.
Thanks Guys
I run 70 in my 30x3 1/2 's with no problems at all. With the way most clinchers leak down, 70 is probably safer.
60 in the front-80 in the back. After WW2 a 30x3.5 is really 30x4-this is for clinchers
Looks like you have 30 x 3.5 tires all the way around on your 1918 roadster. I would not put more than 60 PSI in the tires.
I have a '17 roadster and anything above 60 PSI in 30x 3.5 tires makes for an uncomfortable ride - it bounces down the road like a baby buggy.
My dad has owned a '17 touring for 65 years. He usually inflates to 55 PSI front and rear but never over 60 psi.
I have a '19 Runabout. I agree with Erik for the same reasons. I like 55 psi. If you get tired of checking you're pressure everyday then 60 psi might make life a bit easier.
It is interesting that the pressure varies with the weather. It will be higher in hot weather and lower in cold weather, so if you drive it every day check a few times per month, but if you only take it out a few times a month or year, check before every time you drive it. If you check every day, 55 might be just fine, but if you check less frequently between 60 and 70 is safer.
Norm
I have an old Riverside 30 X 3.5 that is marked in large letters on the sidewall; 55 LBS Max..
(Message edited by redmodelt on December 30, 2014)