Bike Pump, which to buy?

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2009-08-24 10:03 AM

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Louisville
Subject: Bike Pump, which to buy?

I just picked up a new tri bike and need to get an air pump for it.  A couple of questions, what type of air pump do you recommend, the tire pressure max is 120psi? CO2, floor pump, small hand pump, really small hand pump? 

Next question, what should I inflate my tire psi to, all the way to max?

Thanks,

Brian

2009-08-24 10:50 AM
in reply to: #2366365

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Bellingham, WA
Subject: RE: Bike Pump, which to buy?
I just bought a Bontrager turbocharger. Here is a link to it:

http://www.bontrager.com/model/05265

I had problems with a Schwinn pump I had previously and this one is sweet.

I usually ride at about 110 psi but will bump up to 120 for races. Depends on your weight, tires, surface you ride on, etc.
2009-08-24 5:11 PM
in reply to: #2366365

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Subject: RE: Bike Pump, which to buy?
2009-08-25 8:09 AM
in reply to: #2366365

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Maynard, MA
Subject: RE: Bike Pump, which to buy?
I would go with a good floor pump.  Hand pumps will cause your hand to cramp up and they take forever to pump up your tires, and you don't have a pressure gauge. A hand pump is good to keep on the bike if you have to change a flat.  I have my tire pressure around 100-110 PSI.  I wouldn't go to low or your tires are more likely to pop and get flats when your pressure is low. 


2009-08-25 8:27 AM
in reply to: #2366365

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Subject: RE: Bike Pump, which to buy?

Good advice above ... the bottom line is that there are things in this sport where you can cut corners to cut cost; a bike pump is not one of those.  I have bought cheap pumps before thinking "...air is air" no matter what the cost but have found that these do not last as long, particularly with the nozzle.  I had one nozzle that would adhere or otherwise mangle a valve stem ... and leave me with a flat to fix.

As to tire pressure, it depends upon the day.  If it is raining then I will do 100-105 psi so that more tread is on the road.  On a normal day, I pump them up to 120 psi.

Congratulations on the bike purchase!

2009-08-25 8:35 AM
in reply to: #2367715

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Subject: RE: Bike Pump, which to buy?
cardenas1 - 2009-08-24 5:11 PM JoeBlow pumps are great. Pricy, but worth it. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002AGA49E/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1/1...


x2.  The JoeBlow can't be beat - it's a tank, and the SmartHead thing fits every valve (extender or otherwise) out there with no problems or wrestling.  Pricey, but worth it!

Cheers, Chris

2009-08-26 12:08 PM
in reply to: #2366365

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Subject: RE: Bike Pump, which to buy?
Thanks for the responses, sounds like I will be buying a good floor pump.  Most of my riding is in a city park that is 5 mins from the house.  If anything happens when I am out, I can always call my wife to pick me up or jog it home.
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