A mini floor pump – a mini pump with track pump ergonomics – makes for easier roadside repairs than a mini pump. Merida’s offering is physically small at 274mm, with a short 160mm stroke, and will top out at 140psi.
The Merida is relatively compact, so there are no clearance issues, but the inline bracket means you can’t run it in conjunction with a bottle cage. It comes with longer bolts and a retaining velcro strap, and if you don’t want to use bottle mounts, reusable zip ties are also included. The head, hose and handle all lock into place, so it’s rattle-free.
With a 350mm hose, including a 120mm flexible section, the Merida can be angled to suit any rim depth comfortably. The flip-out handle is quite long and shaped, with its soft-touch rubber gripper being more comfortable when applying pressure. The smaller flip-down foot is a little more awkward to use, and with less overall length you’ll be crouching to pump.
The 160mm stroke meant it took 182 strokes to 100psi. The head doesn’t grip as solidly as some we’ve tried, but at a push the whole pump could be stuffed in a jacket pocket, whereas others are frame fit or backpack only.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.