The Airace Infinity ST track pump's heavy steel barrel and steel base are sturdy, but the plastic shell around the gauge looks less substantial and appears vulnerable to impact damage. There is a little play between the barrel and the base but the pumping action is smooth and easy, and the generous length hose means you can inflate tyres with the bike on the workstand.
The large plastic handle is very comfortable to grip and the base’s rubber cover keeps it all firmly planted. The base is wide too, with plenty of room for your feet and strips of high-grip material, so there’s no chance you’ll lose your footing in the throes of inflation.
The substantial plastic head automatically adjusts between Presta and Schrader valves. It’s easy to grip and the chunky aluminium lever works very well, with no danger of trapped fingers. A bleed valve allows for fine tuning. Pumps have a hard life but a replacement head is available for £14.99, which should help keep the Infinity going for years.
The Infinity inflated a 23mm tyre to 100psi in 31 strokes. But with the gauge going up to 240psi accuracy is limited, as you have to aim for a segment of the dial covering about 20 degrees.