Pump up your tires, and your confidence, with compressed air
by: Steve Thompson
Posted on: Wednesday, January 2nd, 2008 at 9:46 pm by: Steve Thompson
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If you’re tired of pumping up your tires with the standard air pumps we’ve been using for decades, it might be time to invest in an air compressor to ease the strain on your forearms—and your patience. Air compressors have been growing in popularity among professional bikers who don’t mind a little extra weight but know that speed counts when you catch a flat.
Although many CO2 air compressors are heavy and unwieldy, there are several smaller models that can get you up to 260 pounds per square inch or more without the extra baggage. However, regardless of which model you purchase, you will have to find space in your backpack or pockets for spare CO2 cartridges, which are necessary for multiple flats.
An air pump, which has been the machine of choice for quite some time, is usually lighter and easier to pack away, despite the new compact versions of air compressors. Some bikers prefer them because they are familiar and don’t mind the extra work involved just to know that it won’t cause problems. A more complex machine is more likely to break or malfunction on the trail, something that professional bikers simply cannot afford.
If you’re going to purchase an air compressor to replace that old tire pump, there are a few things you need to consider before heading to the hardware store or the Internet. If you purchase a compressor that’s too large or doesn’t give sufficient pounds per square inch, you might find yourself walking out of the woods while your buddies head farther along the trail.
Air compressor size
Most people who use their bicycles frequently are more likely to encounter a flat on the open road than in the garage. For this reason, they’re going to want an air compressor that can travel with them without becoming cumbersome. A small machine with a short (15 inches or less) air hose will be ideal for this purpose. The Vector Networks AirPro, for example, offers 120 pounds per square inch with an analog gauge for effective readings.
Usability
An air compressor shouldn’t be difficult to carry or use. I would recommend a cordless compressor for those who love to bike on the trails because it is doubtful that you’ll find an outlet or a car nearby to help you fix a flat. Of course, having a battery-powered machine isn’t enough because many compressors on the market are just too unwieldy. The Coleman Cordless Inflater, for example, weighs a startling eight pounds. Even though its detachable light and 230 pounds per square inch would be helpful, it just isn’t practical.
Price
You can find a good old tire pump at the hardware store for under $15, but air compressors are going to cost you more, regardless of the model or size. A decent compressor will run you between $40 and $60. Anything more expensive just isn’t worth the investment; anything less probably won’t do its job. In my experience, Internet pricing is usually more favorable than what you would find in the store, but it’s a good idea to shop around before using that credit card.
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