Bicycle pumps: types and selection

The pump is the main accessory for the bike, therefore it is recommended to buy them together. This unit is specially designed for bicycle tires. He should always be there, because you can't go far with faulty equipment. When choosing a bike, you must immediately decide on the pump.

The first bicycle pump appeared in 1887 in Scotland. And today, a bicycle pump is an indispensable device for summer technology. Every cycling enthusiast has one. There are several types, different options and models of pumps.

The mechanism is usually equipped with an adapter that connects the fitting and the bicycle tube. The air is pumped using a special piston. When it rises, the system draws in air through the valve. On a downward stroke, the piston begins to displace air from the pump itself into the tire. Some models have a pressure gauge that measures the pressure level inside the chamber.

The chamber can be pumped with a foot pump or compressor. The latter option can pump too much air, which will affect the walls of the chamber and may even rupture it.

In order to be able to take the unit with them, most people choose the manual options. The manual bicycle pump has a cylindrical shape. The design has a piston, rubber gaskets, which act as seals. To make it convenient to operate this device, the pump has a stem and a handle. Pumps with low productivity, more often of a cylindrical shape, have a handle that reduces the dimensions of the device itself.

A valve is installed on a number of pumps, which operates to discharge. Gas or liquid enters the vessel by passing through the fitting. When the piston begins to work back, the contents are compressed, and then, under pressure, exits through the fitting. Tire inflation pumps have a flexible hose that connects to a valve on one of the wheels. In some cases, they are equipped with a pressure gauge that monitors the pressure in the tire.

That's why for long-term and high-quality use, first you need to study the instructions for this device.

The way the pump is used influences the choice of its type. Let's consider the main types of this unit.

• Floor-standing with a manometer (foot). It resembles an automobile because it has a Schrader valve head. When the machine is in operation, its base is on the floor. The pumping process takes place by pressing the pump pedal with your foot. It is easy to use this technique in any situation: the fixed stop goes into the ground, the wide handle allows you to hold it comfortably with both hands. Thanks to the one-way valve, the pressure gauge as well as the air hose are firmly connected to the chamber. Such a system allows you to quickly inflate the tire, but the large weight and dimensions do not make it possible to carry this unit with you.

• Handheld portable. The most popular type, which can be with a hose, as well as an integrated head. Hose pumps have separate tubes connecting it to the chamber nipple. These models are loved for their affordable pricing, a variety of air release connections. However, they are inferior to other types of pumps in terms of their efficiency. The pump with an integrated head is equipped with a rubber insert that fits into the side opening. This is to ensure that the nipple has a good seal around it. Such a seal is the most efficient and reliable in operation.

• In the form of a can of compressed gas. They pump up the wheels very quickly thanks to the liquefied gas, which cannot be pumped in on its own. In addition, they are expensive, so they are used only in races, when there is no time for repairs. It should be noted that CO2 molecules are distinguished by their large size, which does not allow them to stay in rubber for a long time. This means that after a few days the wheel becomes flat.

• Electric bike pump designed for car tires, but can be used for bicycles. A number of pumps cut off inflation to suitable pressure levels, so the bicycle tire may not be inflated enough. This tool works from a 220 V outlet.

• Battery pump... It will easily inflate deflated tires, as well as balls, mattresses and more. Such a unit in any territory will quickly, without wires and silently pump the necessary element. This pump is equipped with a display, pressure gauge and automation. The battery has been working for a long time, but it needs recharging.

• Universal. Differs in its compact size, you can inflate not only bicycle tires. Modern products are distinguished by their beautiful design, have additional automation, which makes this product even more reliable. The device is suitable for different types of nipples.

• Auto Is a reusable device that can be easily carried. It can be used to inflate a completely flat tire as well as a tubeless tire. Quite a handy and simple device. In order to fill the chamber, you just need to press one button. These units are filled with an air compressor.Thanks to the aluminum capsule, it is possible to withstand a pressure of 16 bar. Compressed air in this technique is monitored using a sensor on the housing.

A nipple is a device capable of holding pressure in a chamber. The designs are different from each other, they have advantages and disadvantages.

• Bicycle nipple (Dunlop) - a design dating back to the times of the Soviet Union. The principle of operation is as follows: a tube is inserted into the wheel, its hole is closed with a cambric. If the tube works properly, then the nipple holds the pressure. When the tube fails, it affects the operation of the nipple - it deflates. It turns out that the metal tube is plugged by a rubber tube, which is held by the pressure inside the wheels.

• Car nipple (Schrader) - practical and popular option. Recommended for many types of equipment, it is considered a versatile tool. The product is very reliable and easy to use. The nipple tube is plugged by a spool in which there is a rubber seal. When the pump is connected, the middle bayonet opens the valve. Through it, air enters the wheel. If there is a failure in the system, the valve is not tightly closed, then air will escape.

• Presta (FV and SV) - improved and elite nipple model. Installation goes on tubeless types of rubber, as well as on expensive bicycle models. It is the lightest and most reliable of all the other representatives. In practical use, it is difficult. To work with this nipple, a special adapter and hose are used. The valve spool is not the most convenient, you need to get used to it. The principle of operation is similar to that of a car nipple. The design is made reliable by the inconvenient valve itself.

• An adapter that allows you to switch from one to another nipple. The variety of nipples leads to the fact that the user can easily get confused in their number, which is why an adapter is needed. It usually lasts a long time, enough for several seasons.

So, for bike lovers, you need to have two types of pumps in your arsenal, as well as an adapter. It is important to remember that each nipple has its own diameter. The greatest has automobile.

Let's review the most popular models and brands of bicycle pumps.

• A portable pump is considered a universal device. Leyzine. It is miniature, length 17 cm, weight 94 g. You can easily fit it in a pocket of your clothes or put it in a bag under a bicycle frame. The maximum pressure is 11 atmospheres. There are 2 switching modes: large and small. It turns out that first we swing the chamber under high pressure, and finally we switch to low pressure. The head is suitable for Schrader, Presta nipples.

• For those who are actively involved in cycling, or ride a lot on a bike, it is better to buy home floor pump. The best in this direction will be Topeak JoeBlow Max HP Track... It has a high price range but is suitable for all kinds of nipples. The construction is made of high quality and reliable materials. The manufacturer guarantees the long-term operation of this device.

• Topeak leads the road bike pump rating. You can safely take it even on the longest journey, the brand has managed to positively recommend itself. This device comes with a pressure gauge and a hose. The handle can be folded out with the letter "T", the lower part has a bar, it is convenient to clamp it with your foot. It can even replace portable and floor pumps. This option will be relevant for those people who have only one bike. It can swing quickly, gain 11 atmospheres in a highway tire.

• Cyclotech - the product is made of plastic. Very lightweight, practical, and, most importantly, cheap. Popular with bike lovers. It is a versatile brand in which composite materials are as good as metal pumps.

• Stels is a brand that develops models adapted for a wide range of people. The pump is supplied with a pressure gauge and a scale for measurement. The maximum pressure is 11 atmospheres. The body is made of aluminum alloy, it is distinguished by its power and reliability in use.

• Berkut - devices have special buttons in order to inflate tires... The pumps are easily mounted to the frame. The set includes a flashlight that makes it possible to inflate tires even at night. The unit charges like a simple phone. The pressure gauge works perfectly, without errors it determines the load level for safe inflation of tires.

• Giyo. The company manufactures its tools from high strength and good quality aluminum. The high pressure allows the wheels to be inflated quickly. But there are models in this line that have small tubes, so the tires will have to pump longer than usual.

• Stern - pumps with pressure gauge. They are distinguished by an ergonomic body, a comfortable and rotary handle. The kit includes fasteners. The product is made of plastic, so it is easy and practical to use.

• Xiaomi. The company, which has supplied a lithium battery, a pressure detection system, and other functions to the pump set of its model range. The main thing is that the pump has a compact size, and it can quickly inflate tires even on a car. The result is an innovative product adapted for modern conditions and outdoor activities.

An important characteristic of a bicycle pump is the pressure - it should be maximum... For example, for a mountain bike - from 6 to 8 atmospheres. These are usually standard bicycle pumps. If the bike is a road bike, then 8 to 11 atmospheres. The information on the circumference of the tire will help to correctly determine the pressure. This number indicates the pressure that the tire itself can withstand. It is important to understand here that it must be in equal quantity. Errors will damage the camera.

The bicycle pump must be equipped with a plug that protects it from dust and dirt. It is important to pay attention to mobile models. The ideal option is an aluminum case, which is lightweight and reliable to use. It is better to have two options: one - with a pressure gauge, stationary for the home, and the second - a portable type to take everywhere with you. The choice is up to the owner of the bike.

If there are several bicycles in a family, then buying a separate pump for each is expensive and unjustified. You can install the mountings on the frames and take one pump, then move it from one unit to another. A proven option is considered purchase of two types of pumps: one - at home, the second - with you.

When choosing one or another pump for a bicycle, you must adhere to the following recommendations:

• maximum pressure level in the pump;
• the working volume must be within the permissible norm;
• the pressure gauge measures accurately;
• compatible with nipples of various sizes and brands;
• bicycle pump dimensions;
• unit weight;
• reliable assembly, quality material;
• for expensive outdoor models there should be spare parts.

So choosing a pump for your bike is fun and costly, but worth it. It is better to spend money once and buy really useful things that will help out even in the most extreme situations. An analysis of the types of pumps and their features suggests that accessories in the life of basic structures are far from the last place.

The following video provides an overview of bicycle pumps.