Choosing the proper bike pump is an important step toward ensuring that your bike works when you need it the most--whether it's during a triathlon, a 40-mile tour of the countryside or an errand to a nearby store. Tires should be checked and topped-off before each ride, and a pump and repair kit will come in handy if you get a flat or lose air while you are out.
The four main types of pumps are floor pumps, frame-fit pumps, mini-pumps and CO2 inflators. Leave-at-home floor pumps are known for their simple operation and can be used for other tasks around the house. Frame-fit pumps conveniently snap on the frame of a bicycle and do not require hardware. Mini-pumps can also be attached to smaller sections of the frame but require lightweight mounting hardware. CO2 inflators use small cartridges of compressed carbon dioxide gas to provide almost instant inflation to optimal pressure.
What to Look for
The type of riding you do will determine the best pump for your needs. Casual riders who never venture far from their homes should consider a dependable floor pump. According to the City of Austin Bicycle Commuting Tips, a frame-fit pump tends to work well for commuters. Mini-pumps are desirable for road riding and mountain biking because they are lightweight and can be stored on out-of-the-way sections of the frame, in case you need to carry your bike over streams and fallen trees. When speed matters during a race, CO2 inflators work the quickest and effortlessly of any pumps allowing you to save time and energy according to bicycling.com.
Be sure that the pump head you are using is compatible to your tires' valves. Schrader valves are commonly found on hybrid bikes and children's bikes. They are similar to those on a car tire. Longer, thinner Presta valves are used on most road and mountain bikes. They feature a threaded tip that must be turned counterclockwise before pumping.
Common Pitfalls
Each type of pump has its advantages but there are other factors to consider. Riders who rely solely on floor pumps should have a plan in mind if they suddenly need to fill their tires while touring farther away from home than usual. Portable frame-pumps do not fit on all bikes but mini-pumps that do sometimes require more time and energy to reach the intended pressure. The cartridges used for quick pumping by CO2 inflators can be expensive. If one happens to be defective or past its expiration date, the pump will not function.
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