1) Firstly, find the right pressure for your tyres. This may vary depending on surface conditions and the type of riding you're doing, so get used to experimenting to find the best solution.

Mountain bike tyres have lower pressures than road tyres because narrower road tyres require higher pressure. As a starting point, rear Mountain bike tyres should be at 45psi (pounds per square inch) and front tyres at 35psi. For demanding trails that require additional grip, such as steep climbs with loose rock, you may want to let some air out of the tyres. This increases both the area of tyre in contact with the ground and its grip characteristics.

Always remember to carry a bike pump with you - punctures are not the only time you may need it! Steep climbs are often followed by fast, steep descents and under-inflated bike tyres don't corner well at speed. They are also prone to 'pinch' punctures, when the inner tube is pinched between the tyre and rim.

Road bike tyre pressures vary and some modern racing tyres require up to 130psi. Ask about this when you buy them.

Remember that over-inflated tyres are as bad as under-inflated ones because too much air will make the ride uncomfortable and can result in the tyre losing a dangerous amount of traction over uneven surfaces.

2) Measure your tyre pressures with the cycle pressure gauge before every ride, bearing in mind the kind of riding you intend to do. Allow enough time to alter the pressure with the pump.

3) Remove the dust caps from the valves. The two standard valves are the Presta (thin and long with a nut at the top) and the Schrader (wider and flat-topped). When inflating a tyre fitted with a Presta valve, undo the nut at the top all the way and briefly push in the stalk until you hear air hissing out. This makes sure the valve isn't stuck.

If your inner tube has a Schrader valve, remove the dust cap and push the pump end onto the valve or, if your pump has an old-style screw attachment, screw it on until you achieve an airtight seal.

The new-style trail pumps should come with an adaptor to switch between Presta and Schrader valves but if not, you may need to buy one. Remember to replace the dust cap as a barrier against water and dirt.

4) Push the pump onto the valve but don't go too far with Presta valves or you'll let the air out. Start pumping but make sure you lock your arm or hook a finger around a spoke to avoid wrenching the valve around.

5) Test the pressure with the gauge to check you've hit the number you were aiming for.

6) Screw the dust cap back on until it's finger-tight. Over-tightening on Presta valves can cause them to leak.

7) Perform a quick tyre check. Take the screwdriver and pick out any stones or debris stuck between the treads to avoid the risk of them puncturing the tyre. Check the tyre walls for cuts or splits.