If the bike is equipped with shock absorbers with an air type design, then a high pressure pump is required for their maintenance. With it, you can easily pump up the part and bring the pressure indicator to the desired level. High pressure pumps can also be used to service the rear suspension. Athletes, tourists and lovers of extreme riding must have such a tool at hand.
Features
The functionality of high pressure pumps does not differ from those functions performed by conventional devices. Significant differences relate to the design. High-pressure bicycle pumps are characterized by the following set of features:
- the air chamber has a small volume, so such devices are able to pump less air compared to conventional pumps;
- the case is made of metal and is characterized by high strength - this is a prerequisite for working with high pressure indicators;
- a prerequisite for any NVD is the presence of a manometer of high quality and accuracy, because it allows you to clearly control the performance of shock absorbers;
- the presence of a special threaded valve allows you to hold air inside the part during disconnection from the nipple;
- button to release excess air to bring the pressure indicator to the optimum level.
Selection rules
It is not difficult to choose a high-pressure bicycle pump if you know some of the subtleties of this process. There are only three features, the knowledge of which will help determine the choice of the desired model.
- The maximum pressure depends on the type of fork mounted on the bike.They can work with different indicators of pressure, moreover, the way of pumping the chambers of negative and positive type differs. Also, the rear shock absorbers require more pressure than the front ones. Because of these features, you need to choose the model that can work in the range necessary for the user.
- The type of nipple may differ depending on the model of the pump mechanism. Most models use a Schroeder nipple, but in some instances non-standard parts are found. An example of such mechanisms are pumps from Marzocchi and RockShox. In order not to lose the right choice, you need to choose a pump mechanism with a suitable valve or a set of adapters.
- The gauge scale seems like a trifle, which is not necessary to pay attention to. In practice, this little thing can bring a lot of problems. For example, for driving on the highway, the plug is pumped up to 90 psi, which is convenient to do with a pressure gauge with markings up to 100 psi. With 300 psi markup, this will be difficult to achieve. The accuracy of the plug settings is of great importance.
Model Overview
The modern market for bicycle products offers a large number of high pressure pumps. What to choose from this variety? Our rating will help to make a choice.
Syncros SP1.0 Digital, according to many, is the best offer of all that is available to the modern cyclist. Its cost is also at an appropriate level - about 4800 rubles. The digital device demonstrates high measurement accuracy. Corner design is convenient to use. Features of the hose and shock absorber connection system divide the pumping process into two stages. The bleeding mechanism is also not satisfactory. The user can let out the necessary amount of air.
Despite the high weight of the device, it is compact, so it is convenient to take it with you on the go.
High Pressure Digital High Pressure Digital Bike from RockShox costs a thousand rubles cheaper, but is also a worthy option. Accuracy is at a high level, the design is simple and convenient.
For Birzman Zacoo Macht will have to pay about 2500 rubles. This model is suitable for those who are used to always have a pump at hand. The model weighs 84 grams - this indicator is the lowest of all the NVDs that are included in our rating. The disadvantage is a short hose (only 70 mm). This feature creates some difficulties in the process of servicing shock absorbers. And yet, for travel this particular model is the most successful.
Cost Topeak PocketShock DXG slightly exceeds the mark of 3,000 rubles. There is no digital technology, but the functionality is wide. The weight of the device is small (176 g), the accuracy is high, the reading of indicators is convenient. This picture is spoiled by the inconvenient location of the bleed valve, which can touch and damage.
Lezyne shock drive in Russian stores it costs about 2500 rubles. It attracts with its compactness and aluminum case - these features make the model a tourist one. If pumping is quick and convenient, then reading the gauge will be very problematic. But the design is assembled at a high level, and the hose retracts into the handle.
RockShox company released a successful model High Pressure 600psi, for which you have to pay in the region of 1700 rubles. The pressure gauge cannot read low pressure readings. But the maximum pressure here is twice as much as that of other models. A significant drawback is the hose length - only 34 mm.
Topeak shock'n'roll has a high cost - 5400 rubles. This unit is suitable not only for servicing the fork, but also for pumping tires. This feature is characteristic only for this model in our rating. Switching between modes is easy, although initially the Presta-Schrader valve may seem complicated.
When you want to have at hand a universal device that can replace two pumps at once, you need to take this particular model.
RockShox High Pressure 300psi has an average cost of 2500 rubles. Standard model with basic features. This model is an updated version of devices that were released earlier. Efficient pumping, accurate measurements, easy operation, robust construction - the perfect model for a regular cyclist.
Birzman zacoo salut It costs a little more than the previous model - only 200 rubles. If you choose the most beautiful NVD for a mountain bike, then this model will be in the first place. A large manometer immediately strikes the eye, and there are no complaints about its accuracy. The exhaust valve has a well-thought-out design and is conveniently inserted into the body, which eliminates accidental pressing.
Completes our rating of the DT Swiss high-pressure bicycle pump, which can be bought for 3000 rubles. A removable pressure gauge, a pump with a system that prevents air loss, these features make the model interesting. This NVD is equally suitable for work in the workshop and travel.
But what we will not advise is bicycle accessories from Chinese manufacturers. Only some of them can deserve respect, but you still should not expect long and trouble-free operation from them.
Cyclotech pumps are very popular among cyclists. They are a good budget option that can be purchased for home use.
On how to choose a pump for a bicycle, see further.
