Overview
We like the idea of light these days...seems like even the hottest rides we have so much stuff crammed into our jersey pockets that carrying something super-light seemed like a good idea.
Enter the SKS Sub 40 Mini Pump. This Presta only pump is just 20cm long and 2cm in diameter and weighs a bit under the claimed 39 grams. Lucky for me, I was 15 out on a 35 mile ride when disaster struck. Did I mention I hate CO2 Pumps? No fear I said, I have my SKS...
The Good
The weight. Yes folks it is light...it almost feels like it will break when exerting pumping force (though it was quite strong).
The Snob In Us
Where do we start? First, the screw-top valve enclosure didn't work as it should have and was a nightmare to tighten. Second, when I was able to manage airflow through the pump to the tube, I would miss-align the pump head from the valve, losing valuable pressure. After 25 minutes of pumping, stopping and starting, I was finally able to get enough air into the tube to ride home. How much do you ask? A mere 92 pounds to be exact; a far cry from the 120 psi SKS states on their website.
Our Recommendation
Don't bother. Spare yourself a few grams and get the Blackburn Air Stik 2 Stage Mini Pump. Weighing around 50 grams heavier, the Air Stik is easy to attach and utilizes a two-stage pump system. We had a much easier time getting our tire close to 120 psi in a matter of minutes..
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