Bell Air Attack 650 Bike Pump, 100-PSI

A manual bicycle pump is a pretty fascinating little machine. It has a piston inside that moves up and down; as you work the handle, it creates a vacuum inside the pump’s cylinder. The internal air pressure gets lower than the external air pressure, causing the pump to suck in air from the outside into the cylinder through a suction valve.

This airflow starts the compression process, and when the pump’s internal air pressure gets higher than the tire’s inter pressure, the pump’s outlet valve opens, and the air gets forced into the tire. Some pumps also have pressure gauges, which show the tire’s air pressure as you use them.

Floor bike tire pumps, meanwhile, have bases that sit on the floor and can deliver highly compressed air. Smaller, handheld manual bike pumps usually can’t perform like this and must be pumped more. It’s good to have a maximum of 160 pounds per square inch for floor pumps. The two most common bike tire valve types are Presta and Schrader, so you’ll want a pump that works with both. It should attach easily to either kind of valve without making you have to work too much, so look for ones that adjust automatically.

Tires have different inflation ratings, so you’ll want to know what yours is before using a pump, and then keep an eye on the gauge. Many people inflate bike tires by how full they feel but you may feel more comfortable getting a hard number. You can also use well-made floor bike pumps to inflate other tires and things like inflatable pool toys.

If you choose a floor pump, ensure the base is wide and sturdy; otherwise, it could fall over. Electric bike pumps are a good option for bicyclists too, and many attach right onto the bike frames, working quickly and requiring less effort.

• Look for bike pumps with ergonomically designed handles, since they are more comfortable for your hands and will make the work easier.
• You need to charge electric bike pumps. Don’t forget to do this or you may be left frustrated when you get a flat.
• Bike pumps are also great to have on camping and beach trips to blow up rafts and other inflatables.
• It’s always wise for bicyclists to have patch kits for unexpected flat tires; some pumps come with these.