Clik Valve Explainer
The Schwalbe Clik Valve system represents a rational rethink of tyre inflation. One valve standard, one pump connection, and a much easier inflation process. Like any new system there’s some key things you’ll need to know, but once setup you’ll discover that Clik Valve is much more user-friendly than the traditional options available which until now have dominated the market.
Watch our Clik Valve explainer here.
Up until now, the cycling industry has relied on two main valve types. There’s the Schrader valve, which you’ll find on some bikes and is shared with the automotive industry, and the narrower Presta valve that’s commonly found on road, gravel and mountain bikes. The downside is that different valves often require different pump heads, whether you’re in the workshop or inflating tyres out on a ride. That’s where the Schwalbe Clik Valve comes in.
The idea is simple. One valve standard, one pump connection, and a much easier inflation process. But that’s not the only benefit, so let’s take a look at what makes the system different. First, it eliminates one of the most common frustrations with traditional valves: air loss when connecting a pump. With Schrader and Presta systems, air can escape if the pump head isn’t fitted perfectly. The Clik Valve simply clicks into place, creating a secure connection that’s quick, easy and leak-free.
Another major benefit is convenience. There’s no valve core to unscrew before inflation, so there’s less fiddling around at the roadside, especially when you’re wearing gloves or dealing with cold hands in winter. The valve cap has also been cleverly designed. It clicks securely onto the valve to keep dirt and debris out, and it doubles as a pressure-release tool when needed. Just flip the cap over, press it against the valve pin and release air until you’ve reached the desired tyre pressure. Because the valve opening is wider than many traditional designs, airflow is increased too. That means faster inflation and makes the system particularly useful when seating and setting up tubeless tyres.
When it comes to compatibility, there are a few options. You can use a dedicated Clik Valve pump, fit a Clik Valve adapter to the Schrader side of your existing pump head, or, if you’re caught short, you can even use a standard Presta pump. Just bear in mind that you won’t be able to take a pressure reading through the valve in that setup.
You can even update your current Presta inner tubes, swapping out the existing valve cores with Clik Valve conversion valves if you want one single system across multiple bikes.
With easier inflation, improved airflow and broad compatibility with existing pumps, the Schwalbe Clik Valve could be one of the most practical innovations we’ve seen in years.
Schwalbe Clik Valve Conversion Valves £5.99
Schwalbe Clik Valve Adapter Set £13.99
