Back when bikes all shared a double-diamond frame with a horizontal top tube, the frame-fit pump ruled.
These long-stroke pumps were easy to operate and, in use, looked almost elegant, with riders dropping to one knee by the side of the road and pushing the long plunger into the barrel.
Contrast that with the dreaded mini pump and its short, stupid action.
There’s nothing elegant about being hunched over on the verge of the roadside dressed in Lycra, furiously pumping your fist whilst you bead up with sweat.
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I can see why we ended up with the mini pump. Frame designs have evolved and long frame-fitting pumps don’t fit anymore.
However, I’m convinced the mini pump is not the answer in 2025.
To start, my high-pressure mini pump is okay for road bike tyres but next to worthless on my gravel, mountain, commuter and BMX bikes.
For those, I need a second high-volume mini pump – twice the expense for two things that aren’t fit for purpose.
You could, of course, embrace the C02 inflator. They are quick, simple to use and easily pocketable. The downsides, however, are many.
Get the installation wrong, and you’ll discharge that cold gas onto your fingers, not into your newly repaired tube.
They are also a one-shot deal, so you’ll end up riding with multiple little silver canisters – your saddlepack will resemble the pockets of someone headed to an illegal rave rather than a ride. Plus, there’s litter – waste cartridges can’t be great for the environment.
Recent years have seen the emergence of the powered-pocket inflator, and I’m convinced these are the answer to my inflation woes.
Australian brand Fumpa got the ball rolling with its powerful saddlepack-sized unit.
This was followed by the micro-sized Flextail, Muc-Off’s original AirMach, and myriad other options. More recently, the likes of Topeak and other bike tool makers have enteried the fray.
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The smallest pumps can inflate a couple of tyres with power to spare. Speaking from experience, mid-sized units such as Muc-Off’s AirMach Pro can inflate four large-volume gravel tyres easily. If I’m out on a ride and I get more than four punctures, I’m writing it off as a bad day.
The only thing you need to remember with these pocket power marvels is to keep them charged. And really, in 2025, how hard is that, when you must remember to charge phones, GPS devices, drivetrains and more?
Of course, the mini pump has its place for self-supporting tourists, bikepackers, and continent-travelling expedition riders.
If you’re heading out for a few hours, however, get one of these time-saving marvels. You won’t regret it.
