Skip to main content

Giant Control 1+ MTB track pump


Giant’s dedicated high-volume, low-pressure inflator has a really big dial (60mm), which is very accurate but only goes up to 40psi. The pump head autoadjusts to fit Schrader or Presta valves and the wide lever gives a sturdy, airtight lock. There’s an air release button to get your pressures on point if you overpump, too. It doesn’t quite shift enough air in a single stroke to compete with a compressor but it’ll pop better-matched tubeless tyre/rim combos into place fine if you go mental for a minute. The really long stroke means it isn’t a struggle to get tyres up to pressure, even if you take it right to the dial limit to make sure the beads are fully seated. Its massive metal base makes it less likely to topple over and chip your frame, and the big handle is reasonably comfy. Judging by the Control 2 we’ve had for the past two years, it’s likely to be a lot more durable than many more expensive inflators.

Price $67

Popular posts from this blog

KONA SHRED

With a reputation for no-nonsense ruggedness and a background in the always progressive and punishing riding of Canada, Kona have been building hardcore hardtails for longer than almost anyone else. The Shred is the most expensive bike on test but it’s a proper trail tank.

Sam Reynolds' Polygon Collosus N9

WHO IS SAM REYNOLDS? Hailing from South East England, Sam Reynolds is one of the UK's top freeriders, specialising in dirt jumping and slopestyle. But with mates like World Cup downhiller Brendan Fairclough, he also likes to get up to speed in the hills, where he's been introducing the Collosus to some colossal jumps, gaps and drops.

CANYON NERVE AL 8.0

  S ince their entry into the UK market a few years ago, Canyon have made a name for themselves as purveyors of well-made bikes that exhibit often extraordinary value. The secret (or catch, depending on your point of view) is that the brand don’t have dealers – they ship bikes directly to your door.

SPECIALIZED P.STREET 2

S pecialized’s P.Series bikes have been much loved hardcore/ jump hybrid contenders for years and this 2014 nugget is no exception. If you’re after a really well priced and well sorted complete bike package for jump, street and even better-groomed trail centre action then the P.Street is outstanding. Its rock solid responsiveness and short-stroke fork make it seriously unforgiving on rougher trails though.

SURLY INSTIGATOR 2.0

Ever fancied a fat bike but were worried about its lack of agility, flickability and general playfulness? Surly’s “26+”   wheeled bike could well be the answer, combining wide 26in hoops with huge 2.75in tyres. We hit the trails to find out just what the Instigator 2.0 is all about.