Skip to main content

SKS Air-X-Press 8.0 pump


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

Popular posts from this blog

Gusset Magnum stem

SO GOOD Gusset’s 50mm stem is nicely CNC machined from 7075 alloy and the faceplate and internal steerer clamp are available in a range of five anodised colours to complement the black body. The hidden steerer clamp keeps sharp edges to a minimum and removes stress from the body of the stem. Out on the bike, the stem proved flex free and bombproof.

iXS Asper BC shorts

THEY AREN’T CHEAP, but these well made and feature packed shorts are the epitome of classic mountainbike-specific functionality, and on the bike they don’t disappoint.

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

Alpinestars Stratus gloves

The Stratus gloves from Alpinestars offer a decent amount of protection from the cold and wet without compromising control at the bars.

DRC X-Monitor SP1 lap timer

While smartphone apps such as Strava can be a useful way to keep tabs on your mountain bike rides, sometimes you just can’t beat the simplicity and instant feedback that a good old-fashioned stopwatch style lap timer provides.