MINI-PUMPS
Whether you run inner tubes or tubeless, dual-ply casings or tyre inserts, it takes a brave mountain biker to venture out without the means to fix a puncture. And that means carrying some form of pump. Given that CO2 cartridges are expensive, and wasteful, most riders use a mini-pump, the benefits of which are that they take up minimal space and can even be attached to your frame. But the difference between the best and the worst, in terms of durability and air volume shifted, can be vast, which is where this test comes in.
Mini-pumps have changed a lot over the last few years. Most now have a high-quality aluminium construction, anodised parts, extra grip handles, dual-valve compatibility and there are even some out there that will carry a tool inside. The upshot of all this development is that most modern mini-pumps are more convenient but also more expensive.
What hasn’t changed is how you store them – which is either on the bike or on your person. Stashing them in a pack is recommended because the pump won’t get covered in dirt and grit and is less likely to seize up when you come to use it.
Even though they’re described as mini, the size, or volume, of a pump does have a big effect on how much effort is required to inflate a mountain bike tyre. Compared to road bikes, mtb tyres have higher volume but run lower pressures, which means you need a pump with a large air chamber if you want to inflate them quickly. Sure, a high-pressure/low volume mini-pump will also work, but it will just take longer to do the job.
Most of the mini-pumps tested here are high volume and we’ve covered a spread of styles and prices. But which one blows the rest away?
JARGON BUSTER
Know your mini-pump
DUAL/SMART HEAD
There are currently two valves in common use – Presta and Schrader. To work with both valves, some mini-pumps use an insert that you flip over inside the head, but the best come with smart heads that automatically adjust without having to take anything apart. That said, as most mtbs use Presta valves, you only need to do it once. Both solutions work, but you usually pay slightly more for the latter.
EXTENSION HOSE
A flexible extension hose does allow you to
