Pumps and CO2 for bicycles | Bike accessories

If you are about to buy a bike pump, it is important to consider a few aspects that vary according to model:

• pressure
• flow rate/air capacity
• dimensions
• weight
• material
• robustness
• presence of pressure gauge

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:

Hand pump

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. 

Ground pump

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:

1. STANDARD bike pump: may or may not have a pressure gauge, it is used for classic tyre inflation on every type of bike.
   
   
2. DOUBLE bike pump: with wheels equipped with tubeless systems, a greater quantity of air is needed in the first part to be able to start inflating the tyre. Thus, these pumps, via a selector switch, can deliver either a high volume of air at low pressure or a reduced volume but at high pressure with the same movement. With this system, even tyres with larger diameters can be inflated without the use of a compressor.

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.