High pressure pumps for a bicycle: types, rating of manufacturers and tips for choosing

If the bike is equipped with air-type shock absorbers, a high pressure pump is required to service them. With its help, you can easily pump up the part and bring the pressure indicator to the desired mark. High pressure pumps can also be used to service the rear suspension. Athletes, tourists and fans of extreme driving should definitely have such a tool on hand.

The functionality of high pressure pumps does not differ from those that are performed by conventional devices. Significant differences relate to the design. High pressure bicycle pumps are characterized by the following set of features:

• the air chamber has a small volume, so such devices are able to pump less air in comparison with conventional pumps;
• the body is made of metal and is characterized by high strength - this is a prerequisite for working with high pressure indicators;
• a prerequisite for any NVD is the presence of a high-quality and accurate pressure gauge, because it allows you to clearly control the performance when servicing shock absorbers;
• the presence of a special valve with a thread allows you to keep air inside the part during disconnection from the nipple;
• button for releasing excess air to bring the pressure indicator to the optimal level.

It is not difficult to choose a high pressure bicycle pump if you know some of the intricacies of this process. There are only three features, the knowledge of which will help determine the choice of the desired model.

• The maximum pressure depends on the type of fork fitted to the bike.They can work with different pressure indicators, moreover, the method of pumping up the negative and positive type chambers is different. Also, the rear shocks need more pressure than the front ones. Because of these features, you need to choose the model that can work in the range necessary for the user.
• The nipple type may differ depending on the pump model. Most models use a Schroeder nipple, but some have non-standard parts. Examples of such mechanisms are pumps from Marzocchi and RockShox. In order not to make a mistake with the choice, you need to choose a pumping mechanism with a suitable valve or a set of adapters.
• The pressure gauge scale seems like a trifle that you don't have to pay attention to. In practice, this little thing can cause a lot of problems. For example, for trail riding, the fork is inflated to 90 psi, which is convenient with a pressure gauge that is marked up to 100 psi. With a 300 psi markup, this would be difficult to achieve. The tuning accuracy of the fork is of great importance.

The modern bicycle market offers a large number of high pressure pumps. What to choose from this variety? Our rating will help you make your choice.

• SP1.0 Digital by Syncrosis considered by many to be the best deal available to the modern cyclist. Its cost is also at the appropriate level - about 4,800 rubles. The digital device demonstrates high measurement accuracy. The corner design is convenient to use. The features of the hose and shock absorber connection system divide the pumping process into two stages. Also, the bleeding mechanism does not cause any complaints. The user can release the required amount of air.

• High Pressure Digital Bicycle NVD from the well-known company RockShox costs a thousand rubles less, but is also a worthy option. The precision is at a high level, the design is simple and convenient.

• For Birzman Zacoo Macht you will have to pay about 2500 rubles. This model is suitable for those who are accustomed to always have a pump at hand. The model weighs 84 grams - this figure is the lowest of all the NVDs that were included in our rating. The disadvantage is the short hose (only 70 mm). This feature creates some difficulties in the process of servicing the shock absorbers. And yet, for travel, this particular model is the most successful.

• Topeak PocketShock DXG cost slightly exceeds the mark of 3000 rubles. There are no digital technologies, but the functionality is wide. The weight of the device is small (176 g), the accuracy is high, and the reading of indicators is convenient. This picture is spoiled by the inconvenient location of the bleed valve, which can be touched and damaged.

• Lezyne shock drive in Russian stores it costs about 2,500 rubles. It attracts with its compactness and aluminum body - these features make the model a tourist. If inflation is quick and convenient, then reading the readings from the pressure gauge will be very problematic. But the structure is assembled at a high level, and the hose is retracted into the handle.

• RockShox has released a successful model High Pressure 600psi, for which you will have to pay around 1,700 rubles. The gauge cannot read at low pressure. But the maximum pressure indicator here is twice as high as that of other models. A significant disadvantage is the length of the hose - only 34 mm.

• Topeak Shock'n'Roll has a high cost - 5400 rubles. This unit is not only suitable for servicing the fork, but also for inflating tires. This feature is typical only for this model in our rating. Switching between modes is straightforward, although the Presta-Schrader valve may initially seem daunting.

• RockShox High Pressure 300psi has an average cost of 2500 rubles. Standard model with basic functionality. This model is an updated version of previously released devices. Efficient pumping, accurate measurements, simple operation, reliable construction - ideal for the average cyclist.

• Birzman zacoo salut costs a little more than the previous model - only 200 rubles. If you choose the most beautiful NVD for a mountain bike, then this particular model will come first. A large pressure gauge immediately catches the eye, and there are no complaints about its accuracy. The outlet valve has a well-thought-out design and is conveniently inserted into the body, which eliminates accidental pressing.

• Rounding out our rating is the DT Swiss high-pressure bicycle pump, which can be bought for 3000 rubles. Removable pressure gauge, pump with a system that prevents air loss - these features make the model interesting. This NVD is equally suitable for workshop work and travel.

But what we will not recommend is bicycle accessories from Chinese manufacturers. Only a few of them can deserve respect, but you shouldn't expect long-term and trouble-free operation from them anyway.

How to choose a pump for your bike, see below.