Accessories
REVIEW: M:Part Micro CO2 Pump
by Henry Peacock
| Price | £3.66 |
|---|---|
| Size | - |
| Colour | - |
A well made, inexpensive, indispensable tool that will see many years of use.
The grumbling cyclist inside you hates carrying a spare tube, levers and pump for them to remain languishing in your jersey pocket ride after ride, never being used. We know that we simply have to carry them; it is part of being a cyclist. They are a necessary evil, the M:Part Micro CO2 pump makes this the experience slightly less evil and is, in fact a joy to use.
Reliable and Solid Construction
A traditional old school favourite is the long cyclists' pump, it is the type of thing you see strapped onto a winter bike top tube waiting to be called into action. On the opposite end of the scale is this little tool; using small highly pressurized caspules of carbon dioxide it makes re-inflation ever so simple. When we need the pressure of a workshop pump but obviously can’t carry one this is the answer.
After the new tube has been fitted and the tyre replaced back onto the rim you simply screw the very sturdy brass connector onto the presta valve, which creates a very good seal, ensure the tap is closed and then screw the threaded capsule into the connector. The familiar hiss as the capsule is pierced and the whole system is airtight. You then slowly release the large red tap and the tube will inflate really fast. No fuss and no bent valves. The kit even comes with a foam wrap to use with the capsules, to protect your hand from freezing; it is a nice thought and has safety in mind.
Kit Includes Two Capsules
The connector is really well made, solid and simple to use. I can see this being used for many more years to come. The set comes with two 16g CO2 capsules; these can be bought separately from almost any bicycle shop.
The product is fantastic, however I would still ride with a mini hand pump, I have seen disasters involving cold hands and mis-timed capsule screwing only to see all the precious gas escape into the atmosphere.
Of course, once the cannister is used, it's finished. Unless you want to carry spares for every possibility, I find these are best used to save time or as a back up. Also to fit an inner tube into the tyre it should be filled with a small amount of air so it gains some shape; a hand pump would be perfect to perform this action. Just try not to lose it, the 'micro' should also indicate how easy it is to leave in a jersey pocket. Think of it as a great time saving device, which will make you and your ride mates happier.
Where to buy: Madison
You May Also Like...
Leave A Comment
Please login to leave a comment
