Whether you are a cyclist by passion, professionally, or you simply use your bicycle as a means of transport, you have undoubtedly experienced a puncture or flat tyre...
So, you need a repair kit and an inflation pump. The pump is an essential piece of equipment for every cyclist, to maintain the correct pressure of the inner tube and hence of the tyre, and to ensure pedalling safety and performance. Before you start pedalling, it is a good idea to check your tyre pressure, not least because this reduces the risk of punctures and excessive wear. In fact, a deflated wheel tends to 'wear out' unevenly because the greater surface area in contact with the ground causes greater wear of the tyre shoulder. On the contrary, an overinflated wheel can also cause excessive wear of the central part and more jolting.
If you are about to buy a bike pump, it is important to consider a few aspects that vary according to model:
All these aspects consequently determine the price, which can vary from the cheapest models of around 10€ to the most advanced pressure gauge pumps of around 200€.
There are several different models of bike inflating pumps on the market. We do not classify pumps according to the type of bike because it is the valve that changes, so we will not talk about racing bike pump/electric bike pump/etc., but the most common types are:
In this type, the piston is moved by the hand, thanks to a special handle (or handlebar depending on the model) connected to the piston. Hand pumps are small in size, which is why they are practical and often used during rides, as well as in the event of a puncture to adapt wheel pressure to the ground conditions on which you are riding.
This is the most classic and well-known one, consisting of a vertical cylinder with a base into which runs a piston actuated by an ergonomic handle that the cyclist moves up and down. In this way, air is injected into the chamber thanks to a rubber hose that connects directly to the valve. It is ideal for 'home' use (it cannot be taken along during training sessions or outings with friends).
Inflating pumps can also be classified into:
A practical solution to have with you at all times, especially during longer trips and rides, is the mini portable bike inflator pump: the piston that injects air is moved by hand, thanks to a special handle connected to the piston. It is chosen for its small size, practicality and performance: in fact, despite being small, these portable pumps are able to achieve inflation pressures suitable for any type of bicycle.
They are also useful for changing the pressure during the ride in order to adapt it to the ground conditions.
CO2 cans are the solution in an emergency to quickly resolve punctures while cycling. They are small 'tanks' of pressurised carbon dioxide that are connected directly to the wheel valve using special adapters. They are light, practical, small and, above all, can guarantee an autonomy of several hours.