Despite an all-plastic construction and a bit of base-to-shaft wobble, SKS’s basic track pump has impressed us with its consistent, reliable performance. The handle is broad and comfortable, and its action is smooth all the way down. Inflation speed is middle of the road – it took us 34 pumps to get a 27.5x2.3in tyre to 30psi. Because it’s limited to 115psi, the Air-X-Press 8.0 can’t be used to charge some tubeless inflation canisters. The head has a secure fit over valves, and a flip-lock mechanism. While the hose isn’t long, we’ve rarely found this to be an issue. We’d like a slightly wider base and bigger gauge, but for $45 these little niggles are easy to forgive.
Price $45