Best Portable Bike Pump [Review] in 2020

Best Portable Bike Pump Buyers Guide

After going through this list of portable pumps, it will now be of utmost importance to consider factors to look for in a portable bike pump.

You have to look out for the compatibility of your pump with the valve of the tire that it is intended for. While some other pumps require adapters, it is pertinent to opt for those that need no adapter and can easily be used on most tires.

Your pump should also have a large base for stability. The narrower the base the more unstable it will be and the ease of usage will be hampered. Be on the lookout for a pump that can stand on its own while it works without external help

You equally have to know the pressure range of your tire. It is conventionally believed that tires that are not fully inflated are best suited for rough roads while the fully inflated ones are best for smooth roads. The appropriate pressure for a tire depends on the size, thickness, and usage of the tire. Hence pumps that come with gauges are more suitable as they would regulate the pressure to give you optimum pumping.

Opting for versatile pumps is also key as it would be suitable to pump both Schrader and Presta tires. Having a multifaceted pump would save you money as well as ease the stress of carrying around 2 pumps in case you have different tire threading.

What is a portable bike pump?

A portable bike pump allows you to inflate or to put air into your bike tires. These tools have a lightweight and a small design which makes them easy to attach your bike frame. However, you need to be aware that some are designed for specific tires while others are compatible with all tires. They also use an electric or a manual cylinder pump which compresses the air. Bike pumps are very easy to use because you only need to attach the hose into the tire valve. After this, you can simply push the handle to insert the air into the tire. 

Important things you should know about bike pumps

It is not possible to fix a flat tire using only a pump. This means that you must always carry a bike repair kit.

You also need to check the specifications of the pump before buying it. Some pumps provide high pressure while others provide a high volume. If you are searching for a good pump for mountain bikes, you should consider any of those with a high volume. High-pressure pumps are the best for mountain bikes. 

How to pick the best portable bike pump

Reliability – Since you will be carrying the pump every time you are cycling, it is important you choose a reliable unit. It should be resilient enough to withstand harsh weather conditions such as cold and sun.

Design – Some portable bike pumps are poorly designed which means that they are not easy to use. The best portable bike pumps are those that come with a flexible hose. Again, the materials used also contribute to the durability and weight of the pump.

Pressure indicator – The best bike pumps should come with an indicator or a pressure gauge. This will allow you to know if the tire is properly inflated

PSI – This refers to the amount of air provided by the pump. Pumps with a low PSI rating can inflate most tires. However, road and mountain bikes require a pump with a higher PSI rating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs a portable bike tire?

If you are a bike owner, a pump is one of the most important tools you must have. It is also an important device for those who use bikes frequently or for long rides. Again, it is important for parents, schools, and recreational centers who may need to inflate tires and sports balls.

Are bike pumps universal?

What you need to know is that bike tubes normally use Schrader or Presta valve systems. The good thing about portable bike pumps is that most of them are compatible with both systems. However, you need to check the pump’s specifications to confirm this when buying.