Mini pumps for your bike or e-bike
A mini-pump is a small, handy accessory that you should always have with you when riding a bicycle or e-bike to be able to inflate your bicycle tire in an emergency. Mini pumps are very compact and lightweight, so you can easily carry them in your jersey pocket or bike bag. Some mini pumps have a mount so you can attach them to the bike frame.
What types of mini pumps are there?
There are different types of mini pumps for bicycles and e-bikes, which differ in size, weight and function. For example, you can choose between manually operated mini pumps and electric mini pumps. Manually operated mini-pumps are usually cheaper, but they require strength and time to inflate the tire. Electric mini-pumps, on the other hand, are usually more expensive, but are easier to use and inflate the tire faster.
It is also important to know how much pressure (bar/psi) can be applied with the mini-pump. You don't need as much pressure for mountain bikes, where the volume you create per push is more important. MTB tires require more air than a road bike tire. These pumps usually have a larger diameter. With a racing bike, it is more important to be able to generate more pressure. You need about 6 to 8 bar. The diameter is not quite as large.
There are also still C02 pumps. You can find a selection of these pumps in the C02 pumps category.
What types of valves are mini pumps suitable for?
Another important decision you need to make is choosing the valve type. There are three common valve types for bicycles: Schrader valves (car valves), Presta valves and bicycle valves (Dunlop valves). Schrader valves are the same valves you'll find in automobile tires. Presta valves, on the other hand, are slimmer and longer and are typically found on road bikes. The bicycle or Dunlop valve is used less frequently today. It is mainly found in older tubes/bicycles. So make sure you choose a mini-pump that is compatible with the valve type of your bicycle. Many mini-pumps usually cover at least two valve types.
What is the best way to transport a mini-pump?
Many mini-pumps come with a frame mount. This allows you to attach them directly to the frame. Sometimes the mount is screwed under the bottle cage so that the pump sits directly below the bottle cage. This way it doesn't get in the way at all.
Otherwise, you can simply carry the pump in your saddle bag or other bags on your bike. Due to its small size, it takes up hardly any space.
A third option is still available: your jersey pocket. Most mini-pumps will fit in there just as easily.
Mini pumps: Not just for mountain bikers and road cyclists
Mini pumps are also indispensable for commuters and day trippers. Especially in the event of a slow puncture, the pump helps you to get to the nearest bike shop or even home if you don't have a puncture repair kit with you.