When buying a bike, you also need to purchase a repair kit, a camera and a special pump. The bicycle pump ensures that the wheels are inflated with compressed air. It allows you to maintain the required pressure in the chambers. The pump should be chosen according to certain criteria.
The main types of pumps
There are two types of bicycle pumps - mobile and stationary. Stationary pumps are distinguished by the fact that they deliver a large amount of pressure with little effort. They have sufficient overall dimensions and wide handles. It is recommended that you use this equipment in your home or garage. The presence of a hose and high performance are clear advantages of stationary pumps. But the disadvantages are large size and high cost.
Mobile pumps are quite compact and lightweight, and produce a small amount of pressure. They can be attached to the bike frame with a special mount. The main advantages should be considered simplicity of design and portability. Well, the disadvantages are the lack of a hose and a too small handle.
The above types of bicycle pumps are subdivided into subspecies. There are forklift pumps with an air hose with a threaded nipple. They are also equipped with pressure gauges. Hand pumps are very common, which provide rapid inflation of the wheel to the desired pressure. Foot models let you inflate the wheel by simply pressing the pedal. But these pumps are not portable.
Depending on the material of manufacture, pumps are divided into steel (heavy, subject to corrosion), plastic (compact) and aluminum (light and durable).
What to look for when choosing a bicycle pump
When choosing a bicycle pump, consider the type of wheel nipple. There are three types of bicycle nipples - Presta, Schrader, Dunlop. The former are most commonly used on mountain and road bikes. Nipples of the second type have the largest diameter. Well, the third can be considered classic bicycle nipples. By the way, there are universal pumps suitable for all types of nipples. Only in this case a special adapter may be required.
A pressure gauge pump is the best option for those who want to know the exact wheel pressure and not put their bike at risk. Also pay attention to the handle of the appliance. The most comfortable models have T-shaped handles that make it easy to inflate the wheels by applying pressure with all the force.
Try to choose an aluminum pump as it is the most durable and reliable. Pay attention to the presence of a plug, which is designed to protect the pump from dust and dirt.
