Bike Pumps
Whether you enjoy casual rides around the neighborhood or if you are more the
bike pump is a necessary accessory for all your
cycling activities.
* '''For recreational cyclists''', a standard floor pump that you keep at home is probably adequate.
** At-home floor pumps provide lots of psi (pounds per square inch) in a short period of time, great for refilling tires after a bike has been sitting in the shed all winter or if you just need a little refill from time to time. Floor pumps are also ideal for the occasional rider because they can often double as a pump for other items around the house.
* '''For enthusiasts''' and those who like to ride off the beaten-path or take longer excursions on their bikes, it is best to have two pumps.
** A full-size pump at home should be used to fill up your tires before you go on a long venture or after the tires have lost a large amount of pressure.
** A small pump that can easily attach to the bike or be carried in a pack is both a safety measure and a performance enhancer. This is especially important to have with you if you plan a day trip or camping/bike trip.
Frame Pump Types
Pump Features
When choosing a pump type, be sure to consider the following:
* '''Tire Size/Pressure'''
** The higher the psi needs of the tires, the stronger a pump you'll need.
** Road bikes are often around 100psi and mountain bikes around 30-60psi.
** Each pump is capable of a certain psi output, which is usually labeled on the product description.
** The longer you are out, the more pressure your tires will lose, thus more frequently you'll need to refill your tires.
* '''Pump Speed'''
** This is crucial if you are using the pump for a bike race, in which case, time is of the essence.
** You want to stroke as few times as possible to reach proper inflation. Nonetheless, you need to strike a happy medium between the number of pumps you need to make and the strength you'll need on each stroke because if it takes too much force to pump you'll end up tiring yourself out.
* '''Mounting Location and Size'''
** The mount and pump should fit neatly and securely wherever you want to put it on your bike. Consider if you have a water bottle mount or other accessory that might already be taking up space on the frame.
** Check that the mounting is of the right size to fit onto your bike's frame or choose a mounting kit that is adjustable.
** Verify that the pump and mounting won't get in the way of branches or other obstructions often found when pedaling the backcountry.
* '''Weight'''
** The less weight you have to carry, the better, especially when racing.
** Don't forget that the mounting adds weight too.
* '''Durability'''
** You want to make a wise investment in a product that will last despite any beating it must take.
** When to spend? Spend on home floor models and frame pumps. Mini pumps are more likely to fall apart because of their construction.
** All models you consider should have some sort of warranty.
* '''Extras'''
** Telescoping models save space, but can break down quickly.
** Two headed models take up a little extra space but provide two heads just in case one is ruined for whatever reason.
Valve Types
Compatibility between your tire and the pump is something that cannot be overlooked. There are two types of valves: Schrader and Presta. Whichever valve type you choose, the one key to making them work is assuring that the valve fits snugly over the tire valve for leak-free pumping. This is a very important place to look when considering the durability of a product.
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Popular Pumps
Related Buying Guides
* Inflation Devices
* All the guides on
Cycling
