I think the days of carrying a mini pump or even possibly Co2 cartridges may be over, certainly for road and gravel rides anyway.

As technology has evolved quickly we are now seeing a wide variety of small rechargeable electric inflators come to market, but which one should you buy? We have looked a number of different products but based on a variety of factors we decided to go with the Airmach Inflator from Muc-Off.

Confidence

Many of the brands that we have seen are unknown, and with no real history it’s very difficult to be 100% confident of the build quality and reliability. We have had a strong relationship with Muc-Off for many years in which time they have proved themselves providing many high quality products.

Size & Weight

The chances are you are going to be carrying this new device in your saddle bag or jersey pocket so size and weight is very important. Charge time, number of tyres it will inflate on a single charge are also things to consider.

Last year Muc-Off launched the Airmach Electric Mini Inflator. £99 at launch.

Specification

  • Aluminium construction and works with both Presta and Schrader valves
  • 25 minute charge time, inflates up to 2 tyres on one charge up to 100psi
  • Protective silicone case
  • Intergal rechargeable battery
  • Universal USB-C Connection
  • Battery indicator light
  • Adapter available separately for use with plastic valves/TPU tubes

When we compared the Airmach to other inflators on the market we found it was lighter and smaller making it a great choice. If the completion had any edge, it was that many included an LCD pressure gauge although those products, not surprisingly all tended to be heavier and bigger.

The Airmach Pro

In March this year Muc-Off launch the Airmach Pro Mini Inflator with an LCD PSI indicator! Priced at £99 with the original Airmach reducing to £75

So which Airmach should you buy? As you will see below the Pro is not much bigger but does weigh about 30g more. Would you prefer a PSI gauge for the extra weight or the lighter smaller unit and use feel to set a suitable pressure? The choice is yours.

Muc-Off Airmach

vs Muc-Off Airmach Pro

  • Size: 64 x 56 x 28mm
  • Weight: 97g without case
  • Max PSI: 100
  • Charging Mode: USB-C (Cable included) 
  • USB output: 5V 1.5A
  • Charging time: 25 minutes fast charge
  • Size: 64.5 x 63 x 28mm
  • Weight: 124g without case
  • Max PSI: 120
  • Charging Mode: USB-C (Cable included)
  • USB output: 5V 1.5A
  • Charging time: 30 minutes
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