mybest
BicyclesHelping You Find the Best
mybest
BicyclesHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Bicycle Pumps in 2022 (Lezyne, Topeak, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Bicycle Pumps in 2022 (Lezyne, Topeak, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Bicycle Pumps in 2022 (Lezyne, Topeak, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Bicycle Pumps in 2022 (Lezyne, Topeak, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Bicycle Pumps in 2022 (Lezyne, Topeak, and More) 5

10 Best Bicycle Pumps in 2022 (Lezyne, Topeak, and More)

Flat tires are unavoidable, whether you're a casual weekend rider, city commuter, or downhill racer. But what kind of pump should you carry with you - a handheld mini pump or a CO2 inflator? Even if you're cautious and have puncture-resistant tires, you'll need to top off eventually. So, what's the best kind to keep in your garage - a foot-operated pump, push pump, or an electric compressor? You also need to get one that suits your ride style and tires. Is high volume or high pressure better for you?


To answer all of your burning questions, We've looked at a variety of options for all rides, from fat bikes to road bikes to beach cruisers. We considered uses from trail ride top-offs to pumping up the kids' bicycles at home. The Bell Air Attack 650 impressed us with its versatility, ergonomic design and sturdy build. But even that won't help you when you need air on the road or trail, so keep reading to check out our other top choices!

Last updated 09/26/2023

Quick List - Top Bicycle Pumps

1

Bell

Air Attack 650
Air Attack 650

A High Volume Pump for a Variety of Uses Around the Home

2

Lezyne

Pressure DriveSmall
Pressure Drive

A Tiny Frame-Mount Pump That Delivers High Pressure

3

Acetek

Cordless Air Compressor
Cordless Air Compressor

A Portable Handheld Substitute for a Big Compressor

4

Vibrelli

Mini Bike Pump and Puncture Repair Kit
Mini Bike Pump and Puncture Repair Kit

Switch Between High Volume and High Pressure Modes

5

Audew

Dual-Cylinder Foot Pump
Dual-Cylinder Foot Pump

Pump Your Tires Without Needing Popeye Arms

mybest US Editors
Guide
Editing Dept.
mybest US Editors

mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.

mybest US Editors's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Bicycle Pump - Buying Guide

The most important things to consider when choosing a pump are what kind of tires you have and where you'll use the pump. The fact is, most bikers will probably want to own two different kinds of pumps: one to bring on rides and another to use at home.

1

Decide Where You're Going to Use the Pump

If you only own one pump, it must be a portable pump! Unless you live in a city where you'll be able to repair a flat at a gas station or bike shop easily, you are playing with fire by not taking a pump with you when you ride. There are two main types of portable pumps: hand pumps (or frame-mount pumps) and CO2 inflators.

Frame-Mount Pumps Suit All Riders and Bikes

Frame-Mount Pumps Suit All Riders and Bikes

Frame-mounted pumps are compact and usually sold with hardware to attach it to your frame using the water-bottle holder bolts. The pump goes off to the side, so you can still hold a water bottle. You can also buy Velcro straps or other mounting hardware separately if you want to fasten it elsewhere, like your seat stem.


There are different designs: some you push to pump, others are foot-operated. Some connect directly to the valve stem, which can cause it stress, so many models offer a flexible tube connection.


Micro pumps are very small and easy to carry, but they'll sacrifice efficiency. If you want a micro pump, look for one that is dual-action. These pump both on the push and the pull stroke, which reduces time and requires less arm action in the long run!


When you're planning which size to buy, think about where you'll mount it and purchase accordingly. For a road bike, you may want to mount it to the top tube (the part of your frame from the handlebars to the seat), so measure that in millimeters; or you can look for one that fits your frame size (in centimeters).

CO2 Inflators are for Fast Refills, but Not for All Riders

CO2 Inflators are for Fast Refills, but Not for All Riders

Another portable option is a CO2 pump or inflator, but they're a supplement, not a primary choice. The advantages are that they're tiny and lightweight. But you'll have to buy CO2 cartridges each time you use it. 


One cartridge will generally fill one tire, maybe two if you have skinny racing tires, and even if you're just topping off and don't use up the whole charge, the rest of the gas will usually leak out anyway. This could be a good option ff you race or are just impatient, but they aren't necessary for most riders.

Shop Pumps are Faster and More Efficient

Shop Pumps are Faster and More Efficient

In addition to a portable pump, you may want to invest in a shop pump to keep in your garage or tool shed. Floor pumps are the manual option. They're ergonomic and faster to use than a frame-mount pump. A long hose eliminates valve stem stress.


They vary by operation method, with some being foot-operated either with an offset pedal or by directly stepping on the piston. The most common are hand-operated. Whichever you prefer, look for one that's stable, with a large base and easy-to-grip handles.


Another type to keep at home is an electric pump. These are kind of like handheld compressors, and most are rechargeable. Those that plug in are obviously less convenient. Rechargeable ones should last long enough per charge to pump what you need.


Both electric pumps and manual floor pumps are great options if you need to pump other things, as they often come with needles to inflate balls and cones for things like pool toys and air mattresses. Electric ones can even be used for your car tires!

2

Decide Whether You Need High Volume or High Pressure

Because you can't really get both! As the volume of air that a pump can produce increases, the maximum pressure usually drops.

Pressure for Road Bikes, Volume for Thick Tires

Pressure for Road Bikes, Volume for Thick Tires

Floor pumps, by their nature, will offer higher volume. They can also get to higher pressures with less effort from you.


But not everyone needs both high pressure and volume. Road and racing bikes require a pump with higher pressure, and it should have a maximum pressure rating of 160 pounds per square inch (psi).


Mountain bikes only need a maximum pressure of 120 psi, and non-specialized bikes like beach cruisers or kids' bikes can get away with 90 psi. For bikes with larger tires, high volume (for faster filling) is more important.


If you have a bike with fat tires, you can forget about high-pressure pumps completely, unless you like the idea of pumping a tire for hours. Go for high volume!

You May Not Need a Gauge

You May Not Need a Gauge
Portable pumps rarely have gauges, and the right pressure is achieved by feeling. If you're looking for a pump with a gauge, keep in mind that most non-digital gauges are more accurate in the middle ranges. Fat bike riders may want to invest in a separate low-pressure gauge.

Maximum pressures vary by type, with floor pumps often being capable of up to 160 psi. Portable pumps range from 90 to 160 psi. Of course, with any manual pump, the actual pressure you can reach depends entirely on your own strength, though!

3

Check Your Valve Stems Before Clicking the Checkout Button!

Check Your Valve Stems Before Clicking the Checkout Button!

There are two types of valve stem used on almost all bicycles sold in the US: Shrader and Presta. They are not interchangeable at all! If you get a pump that can't handle your valve stem type, you'll have to get an adaptor.


Shrader valves are the same kind as those on car tires. Presta valves are thinner and have a threaded cap to keep out dirt. Rarely, you may find bikes with Dunlop valves.


Fortunately, many pumps now can work with both types right out of the box. With some, you may need to switch the pump head, but others have "smart heads" which will adjust on their own.

4

Consider the Durability of a Pump's Build

Consider the Durability of a Pump's Build

One final consideration is the durability of a pump. Since they need to withstand high pressures, the interior and exterior should be made of quality materials. Look for a tough plastic or aluminum body on a portable pump. Floor pumps will have a steel or aluminum construction.


The internals are harder to inspect, but it may be worth researching whether or not the maker sells spare parts. If they do, it's likely they put enough engineering into their product that it's not disposable but meant to last. Some pumps may come with a warranty as well.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Bicycle Pumps

We've tried to include a variety of types to suit all bikers. Do you want something portable or not? Prefer a pump with a gauge or without? Need quick inflation or high pressure? You'll find something on this list worth checking out.
Popularity

Products

Image

Click to purchase

Key features

1

Bell

Air Attack 650

Bell Air Attack 650 1

A High Volume Pump for a Variety of Uses Around the Home

2

Lezyne

Pressure DriveSmall

Lezyne Pressure Drive 1

A Tiny Frame-Mount Pump That Delivers High Pressure

3

Acetek

Cordless Air Compressor

Acetek Cordless Air Compressor 1

A Portable Handheld Substitute for a Big Compressor

4

Vibrelli

Mini Bike Pump and Puncture Repair Kit

Vibrelli Mini Bike Pump and Puncture Repair Kit 1

Switch Between High Volume and High Pressure Modes

5

Audew

Dual-Cylinder Foot Pump

Audew Dual-Cylinder Foot Pump 1

Pump Your Tires Without Needing Popeye Arms

6

Pro Bike Tool

Bike Pump With Gauge

Pro Bike Tool Bike Pump With Gauge 1

Mini Frame Pump With Pressure Gauge

7

Topeak

Joe Blow Sport III

Topeak Joe Blow Sport III 1

High Pressure Pump With a Large, Accurate Gauge

8

Pro Bike Tool

Pump With Stabilizing Foot Peg

Pro Bike Tool Pump With Stabilizing Foot Peg 1

A Mini Version of a Floor Pump That Delivers Speed and Versatility

9

Lezyne

Control Drive CO2 Inflator and Cartridge

Lezyne Control Drive CO2 Inflator and Cartridge 1

When You Need to Inflate Fast, Use This

10

Topeak

Joe Blow Booster Floor Pump

Topeak Joe Blow Booster Floor Pump 1

Seat Tubeless Tires Without CO2 or a Compressor

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Bell
Air Attack 650

Air Attack 650 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.96
Low
Reference price
$19.96
Low

A High Volume Pump for a Variety of Uses Around the Home

If your household has bikes with both Shrader and Presta valve stems, as well as items other than bike tires that need air, this is a great go-to garage tool. It's a high volume pump that puts out more air per stroke thanks to the 630 cubic centimeter volume of the barrel. It has an easy-to-read, floor-mounted gauge.


Some reviewers had trouble with the barrel freezing up, and others say the clamp handle being plastic seems like a weak point.


However, most say the pressure gauge is accurate. They also point out that being a high volume pump, it will take a bit more strength to pump at higher pressures; but they love the fact that it can inflate a 26-inch mountain bike tire with only 14 strokes!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Lezyne
Pressure DriveSmall

Reference price
$45.99
High Mid

A Tiny Frame-Mount Pump That Delivers High Pressure

This 170-millimeter-long pump comes with an ABS Flex Hose that attaches securely to both valve types thanks to an integrated valve core tool. The frame mount bracket attaches under your water bottle holder, and the pump is secured with Velcro.


Users mention that the pump does not work well with Presta valves that have removable cores and it can unscrew the valve stem when you remove the pump.


However, most love the lightweight, sturdy build and the sleek design (it's available in other colors, too!) Most were able to achieve a not-too-shabby 75 to 100 psi, which is pretty good for a tiny hand pump.

No.3

Acetek
Cordless Air Compressor

Reference price
$59.99
High Mid

A Portable Handheld Substitute for a Big Compressor

If you want to go the electric route but aren't looking to invest in a full-sized compressor plus gauge and nozzle to do bike tires, this is a handy device. It's still loud like a compressor, but compact, rechargeable, and offers a digital pressure display.


A pressure monitoring system will shut the pump off when it reaches your desired psi (or you can use BAR, kpa, or Kg/cm2, if you prefer.) A bonus feature is that you can also use it for balls, air mattresses, and even your car tires!


Bike owners who purchased one say the pressure readings are accurate and it was easy to figure out. It can pump a lot on one charge and doesn't get hot while working. They point out that it can't pump while charging, so keep it plugged in and ready to use when needed.

No.4

Vibrelli
Mini Bike Pump and Puncture Repair Kit

Reference price
$24.98
Low Mid

Switch Between High Volume and High Pressure Modes

This frame pump has an incredibly clever design. Not only does it automatically grip both Shrader and Presta valve stems without changing anything, but the extendable telescoping barrel also allows you to start pumping at high volume for maximum efficiency and then switch to high-pressure mode to top off your tire!


Some reviewers complained that it's hard to attach the pump to the valve correctly, and because there's no hose, it may not fit between the spokes of certain wheels like those on strollers. They also say the patches are worthless.


However, they love the telescoping feature, saying that it does save time and pumping requires fewer strokes than most mini pump models.

No.5

Audew
Dual-Cylinder Foot Pump

Reference price
$33.99
Mid

Pump Your Tires Without Needing Popeye Arms

If you prefer foot pumps, this is a great choice. It has a curved anti-slip pedal, dual nozzle design, and a pressure gauge. It features dual cylinders to shorten your pumping time.


A few reviewers complained that the slide lock on the side, which keeps the pedal depressed when not in use, would move during pumping and lock the pedal. Others said the gauge is not accurate at very low and high pressures.


Most users love how fast it fills tires, however. They say the step-on design is comfortable, stable, and effortless.

No.6

Pro Bike Tool
Bike Pump With Gauge

Reference price
$29.98
Mid

Mini Frame Pump With Pressure Gauge

This small frame-mount pump has a pressure gauge built into the air hose to make it easy to fill your tire just how you like it, from 20 to 100 psi. 


The hose screws onto a Shrader or Presta valve stem for a tight connection with no air leaks and less stress on the valve. It also has a mounting bracket with a rubber strap for maximum hold during trail rides.


Reviewers say it works better with Shrader valves than Presta, and it's quite a workout to get over 70 psi. Others mention the scale on the gauge is too small between 20 to 60 psi, making it hard to judge lower pressures.


Others say the customer service and lifetime warranty make this a reliable option. They like that the hose is secured inside the pump when riding and that the gauge is fairly accurate.

No.7

Topeak
Joe Blow Sport III

Reference price
$49.95
High Mid

High Pressure Pump With a Large, Accurate Gauge

For higher pressure tires, this floor pump with an ergonomic handle and mid-mounted gauge will make pumping easier. The hose rotates from a pivot point so there's less stress on your valve, whether it's near the floor or at the top of the tire.


There were complaints about a finicky connection to Presta valves, but reviewers overall say it's simple to use. It's easy to get up to 110 psi for road bike tires, and mountain bike riders are fond of it too. The hammer-style head and sturdy construction were favorite features mentioned by many.

No.8

Pro Bike Tool
Pump With Stabilizing Foot Peg

Reference price
$34.99
Mid

A Mini Version of a Floor Pump That Delivers Speed and Versatility

If you want the benefits of a floor pump with the portability of a frame-mount, check this one out! It lets you to put the body on the ground and pump with the handle for an ergonomic experience. The valve stem connections are threaded for a tight fit. It also comes with a mounting bracket and nozzles to inflate balls or pool toys.


Some buyers said the lack of instructions meant they had a hard time figuring out how to use it, and they recommend watching online videos if necessary.


But many commented that the design of the handle made pumping much easier when compared with other similarly- sized pumps. Several say they use this instead of owning a larger floor pump for around-the-house jobs.

No.9

Lezyne
Control Drive CO2 Inflator and Cartridge

Reference price
$26.99
Low Mid

When You Need to Inflate Fast, Use This

A CO2 injector is used for quick, on-the-road inflation such as during a race, when every second counts. Impatient people may want to carry one as well! This set comes with a cartridge and sleeve to protect your hands from the cold metal which results as the gas discharges.


The feature we loved, aside from the stylish metallic colors available, was the pressure control knob. Unlike others that use a lever, this should make it easy to regulate the flow of gas.


Negative reviews all involve a gasket blowing or the CO2 otherwise leaking. However, these are few. Most are impressed with the compact design, and the aluminum construction is safer than plastic when dealing with high-pressure gas.


One reviewer even said they were able to use the same cylinder multiple times because the head sealed tight after the first use. With most heads, the canisters only give you one shot!

No.10

Topeak
Joe Blow Booster Floor Pump

Reference price
$149.95
High

Seat Tubeless Tires Without CO2 or a Compressor

This pump is designed with a canister to properly seat a tubeless tire by releasing a burst of air all at once. Once the canister is filled with one liter of pressurized air, simply switch from pump to charge and the air is released into your tire all at once.


Some reviewers mention that for the price you'd be better off buying a compressor. But for some bikers, that's not an option because of noise or lack of electricity in their workshop. Others compare it to CO2, but most say this is far more reliable.


Most reviewers say they could get it to work the first time, every time, but with one big caveat. Although the specs say it can work with Shrader valve stems, more than one buyer said the fit was impossibly tight and they had to get an adaptor.

A Few Tips on Inflating Your Bike Tires

A Few Tips on Inflating Your Bike Tires

Although there is no rule for proper inflation, there are some guidelines that will help you find the most comfortable ride.


Remember first of all that the "best" pressure depends on the road conditions, tire size and thickness, and weight of the rider. While it's okay to under-inflate slightly on a rough road or for better grip, never over-inflate! Check your tire sidewalls for their maximum pressure.


General pressure ranges are as follows:

  • Road bikes: 80-130 psi
  • Mountain bikes: 30-60 psi
  • Cruisers: 35-70 psi

Top 5 Bicycle Pumps

No. 1: BellAir Attack 650

No. 2: LezynePressure DriveSmall

No. 3: AcetekCordless Air Compressor

No. 4: VibrelliMini Bike Pump and Puncture Repair Kit

No. 5: AudewDual-Cylinder Foot Pump

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Bicycles

Folding Bikes

6 Best

Tested and Reviewed

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.