Is this the END for C02 and the Mini Pump? - CycPlus Tiny Pump Cube
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- čas přidán 18. 09. 2023
- The CYCPLUS Cube Mini Pump - Can it really replace your mini pump or Co2? Well, stick around and we’ll give it a try.
CYCPLUS Tiny Cube Pump
CYCPLUS - www.cycplus.com/products/tiny...
Amazon - amzn.to/44SF02O
Topeak Smart D2 Digital Gauge
amzn.to/48iuMvy
About Ribble Valley Cyclist:
I am a regular road cyclist based in the Ribble Valley, in the North West of England. I have been a cyclist my whole life, and try to get out every day. The purpose of my CZcams channel is to share the knowledge I’ve built up in my 40 years as a cyclist.
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I'll stick with my C02. I only use about one a year, it's smaller, and it doesn't discharge over time. I could have a C02 canister stashed in my saddle bag for 5 years and still be confident it will work when I need it. You can't say that of a battery powered device.
This is a good point you make.
Thank for sharing
Jon 👍
Yea but c02 doesn't always inflate the tire to where you want it so the pump may be the best answer. Charging isn't put of the norm for mtb peripherals with all the wireless upgrades on today's market
@@FACTSI1I c02 is only to get you home or to the next servo to deflate & then pump up again with air.
@daveinch8781 exactly. This pump will keep you on the trail.
@@FACTSI1I But only for one flat. I always carry 2 tubes and 2 CO2 cartridges because sometimes you don't find that sharp piece of glass or whatever that caused the flat initially.
It might replace cO2, but it'd be insanity to ditch your mini pump. They pretty much always work, as many times as you want, and don't need charging.
Completely agree 👍
I can't ditch my mini pump.... because I don't have one. Ditched frame pump for CO2 over a decade ago and never looked back.
The reason CO2 then devices like the Fumpa became popular is that mini pumps are just garbage. no one has ever been able to fill their tire up to the needed level.
I have 3 mini pumps and they are all shite.
What do you use@@saskhiker3935?
I have used this for months. It is amazing. Saved a ride after a tubeless puncture.
Great to hear!
I stick to my Co2 cartridges but I see a purpose for it as a replacement for my track pump on holidays, saving a lot of space.
You can use it to top up the tires at the hotel and have the Co2 with you on the rides.
Used it a few days ago. Was on a gravel ride, and my tubeless got a puncture...... thorn, so ended up loosing half the pressure in the tyre. I hate those, because you waste a whole C02, just to top the tyre back up. Not with this little thing, stuck it on, sorted! Co2 still has a place, just not for crappy little things like that.
Great suggestion.
I think there are quite a few things to consider here. My initial feeling is the cycplus is expensive for something that I only occasionally need. I've abandoned tubeless tyres after several years use on MTB, gravel and road because of the faff, cost and mess. Therefore I only use tubes now and very rarely get punctures but more so in the Winter months obviously.
One of the downsides on the cycplus pump is that it is a rechargeable unit with presumably lithium-ion batteries. My experience with these is they will degrade over time and even more quickly if you store them fully charged. This is obviously one of the limitations with the cycplus - you either only charge to say 80% and risk not covering two punctures or you carry it charged at 100% (possibly for weeks) and risk degradation of the battery anyway over time.
Another thing is you will need to remember to charge the thing up after use. You might think that is obvious but the amount of my mates that I have been out with who have forgotten to charge their Garmin or Di2/etap batteries at one time or other shows that not to be the case.
I think it may be useful for lazy people in a group where one of you carries the cycplus as long as someone else has a reliable mini-pump as well. I don't think I would trust only carrying this on my own on a long ride.
Overall, I think I will stick with my trusty mini-pump as I don't get that many punctures anyway.
Completely agree with all your points. I also think discharge caused by cold temperatures is worth thinking about.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts 👍
Jon
I'm not sure if we should be putting more CO2 into the atmosphere and I have picked a more than enough disposed of cannisters.
I'm still using a full length frame fit pump and it's getting a lot of use as everyone else in the group, borrow it.
What pisses me off are reviews like this one; as there is only a 30 day guarantee this tells you all you need to know about this made in China product which is more likely a knock off from Fumpa pump would my best guess. My suggestion to the reviewer is come back in a year and tell us how it held up and did the battery hold its charge and perhaps the 30 day warranty could be explained for this wonderful product?
@@harryrowland4734
The CO2 in those cartridges is already a waste product, if you don´t buy it they dump it anyway!!!
Also.. one 18650 Lithium cell emits 800g of co2 in it´s production, your standard co2 cardridge holds 12g, that means you have to use up 66 cartridges to brake even with just the cell alone! 😁
Not considering for the rest of such a pump or the electricity to charge it, but that might be comparable to the making of the cartridges.
Just somthing to think about for those who are blindly on the greenwashing trip!!😉
@@harryrowland4734it doesnt happen with well maintained tyres, but the lovely sound of “can we use your pump” is a big vote
Fumpa was around long before Cycplus. No, the battery technology is not quite there yet, here is why: those compact electric pumps are great volume but the weight is around the same as an average mini pump, so not really a win there. So the only thing you win is a bit of time on pumping. Now the downsides: if you stuff anything up during or before the pumping process, you may not have another chance to pump it up because the battery will be flat, further to that punctures are relatively rare, and there is always a slight self discharge of electronics, so if you do not regalrly charge it up you may find it to be flat even though you have never used it when you need it the most. Further to that, batteries deteriorate with time, they sometimes swell and always lose capacity, so it may only be good for a year or two and then you may need to discard it, unlike the pump. Popular full size electric pumps are better because the battery is so huge, but their weight is about half a kilo and they not always work well with Presta valves.
Completely agree, Hard Work. I think the biggest issue for the electric pump is discharge over time. Also, there is the issue of accidental activation, which is something that nobody has mentioned yet!!
I think I'll stick with pump and tubes. I ditched tubeless about a month ago as I couldnt be arsed with topping up sealant and the mess it creates. Tpu tubes are the best, and if you get, worse case scenario, a few punctures I'd prefer to rely on a mini pump and take the small amount amount weight penalty! Good test though i have to admit. 🙂🙂🙂
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Oh and yeah, tubeless can be a nightmare
Biggest issue for me is no pressure gauge, there are models with one but they are huge! If the cube gains a gauge I’d be more likely to get one.
Agreed. When I did that last inflation, I had no idea how much pressure had built up. Was it at 80psi, or 140? Was it going to blow up in my face?
@@ribblevalleycyclist Tyres don't "blow up" if you're a few psi over what's written on the sidewall. They're tested to at least twice the figure stated on the tyre wall (and have to pass that test) That pump will never make it "blow up" no more than you could make it blow up by overusing a mini pump. The last 5 minutes you were holding it, it probably didn't increase the pressure in the tyre at all and you just drained the battery.
Does your mini pump have a gauge?
@@stevenmeyer9674No, but my CO2 fills a 700x28 to 60psi.
Quite true like how hard can it be to gain a gauge..
If you're riding with a tubeless setup something like this mini pump is head-over heels superior to a C02 cartridge, because injecting the C02 into a tubeless tire turn the sealant into a soft taffy/jello substance. The tire will then have to be taken off the rim and the semi-solid sealant will have to be removed and replaced with fresh sealant.
I found out the hard way......twice.
I just bought a Fumpa pump.
Agreed, Ron. Too many people don't know what C02 does to sealant. Addionally, they don't realise how thin it is, and that it leaks out. However, to plan devil's advocate, if you break a tubeless seal, then Co2 is the only way you're sorting the issue on the road/trail.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
@@ribblevalleycyclist Just bring a spare tube for that. Covers all kinds of issues and Tpu tubes weigh next to nothing.
Great video as always... but I feel you hit the nail on the head right at the end of the video IF it would replace CO2 or mini pump. For everyday rides, I think it certainly would, but on long day outs (centuries/fondos/etc), i'm not sure if I could ever carry ONLY the cycplus. Just ask one of my fellow group rides on our recent century ride. He punctured 3 times (i think he was on 28's but not positive)... doing the math, if he only had the cycplus (and no one else around to help), that 3rd puncture likely would have left him stranded beside the road. I love this tech, but don't think I'd ever stop carrying a backup!
Hi Will,
Glad you enjoyed it.
Yeah, he would've been high and dry..... and flat!!
I'm in agreement with you. If you're out on a cafe club spin, then yeah, it's great. But if you're doing something big, or touring, the trusty old analogue tech is still the way.
Thanks,
Jon
The CZcams algorithm should have gotten you passed 100k subscribers by now. Excellent content
Wow, thank you! Slowly creeping up.
Well done on you last few videos and subs. Fully deserved my favourite maintenance and reviews of cycling on CZcams. Hopefully more will see your great videos 😊
Thanks, Dave, and good to hear from you. Bet it’s starting to get a bit soggy up there!
@@ribblevalleycyclist it’s been terrible since July unfortunately hoping to be out again soon
@LakeDistrictcyclist Agreed, crap down here too! Fingers crossed for something better 👍
I’ve got a fumpa electric pump. It’s a tiny bit bigger than this one and a bit heavier too but I’ve had it 4 years and it’ll pump three tyres up to around 80psi. I carry it all year around (together with a mini pump as a back up) and believe me in winter it beats standing at the side of the road giving it 150 strokes.
The Fumpa is a popular choice 👍
@@ribblevalleycyclistha ha. My fumpa f8nally blew up today after 4 years. Oh well back to CO2
Just bought one. Brilliant bit of kit.
Enjoy it 👍
I love my minipump - used it last night when I got a slow puncture in the dark. So, if I was a long way from home, I could have repressurised repeatedly without worrying about charge levels.
Hi Mike, funny you should say that, I too was out last night, and had issues with a tubeless tyre leaking air. I would normally only carry Co2, so when this has happened in the past, I've wasted a whole Co2 canister to top up a tyre with a very slight leak. I then get home and discharge the other 90% of it into the air..... Very frustrating. Last night, I just stuck the CycPlus pump on it for 20 seconds..... Done! Just like you would with your mini-pump. As I say in the video, the mini-pump still has a place in cycling.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Mini pump always work, however my arms don't wanna know!
I own 3 crappy portable bike pumps. Abasolute Shite!
I am excited about this product.
I’m happy because I was traveling to Central America to do a ride and they confiscated all my co2 cartilages I just purchased and the cost on the other side was mind blowing to say the least.. I’m buying this thanks
Obe had this for about 8 months, its fantastic! Its crazy has it fast charges too. The one thing you should have mentioned is with latex tubes and the heat it can produce. With latex tubes ill do about 15-20 seconds and wait for 10 seconds. This lets the latex stem cool down so it doesnt over heat and leak. Good video mate.
Great information, thanks for sharing 👍
I'm blown away that this little guy works as good as demonstrated. It's for emergencies only not to be used as a shop pump. Also amazed how many riders still cannot figure out how to use Tire Sealant....it's not rocket science and it's messy only if you don't follow directions.....I do use a Battery Operated compressor at the trail head to make sure my tires are at the correct riding pressure. It's made by Fanttik and it works flawlessly to fill my 2.6" tires. I do use Co2 canisters on the trail but I'll bet this little guy works great just for trail emergencies...should be way lighter than by CO2 kit.
It's a good bit of kit, Larry. Used it a few days ago. Was on a gravel ride, and my tubeless got a puncture...... thorn, so ended up loosing half the pressure in the tyre. I hate those, because you waste a whole C02, just to top the tyre up. Not with this little thing, stuck it on, sorted! Co2 still has a place, just not for crappy little things like that.
I have one and love it
Great little bit of kit.
Cycled from Florida to Massachusetts, averaged 110 miles a day for 18 days. Had 8 flats, but 7 were on the same day. Pump up with mini pump and top off with C02 carried 3 and the mini pump. only used 2 of them with that strategy. But for normal rides the C02 seems way better to me just for speed alone. And the "how green are they" question is ridiculous, there's more steel in the rebar of the first overpass you go over then there is in the whole country's C02 allotment for a year. Throw out one set of car break rotors and that's more steel than my lifetime of C02s. keep the gadget I'll go with C02s and the mini. Be curious to know how it does when your "waterproof" bag soaks through and floods from riding 5 hours in the rain. but this could be what "ZAP" was to electronic shifting... having said that I'll probably wait for the Di2 equivalent.
Agreed, an epic journey like that, you need either a pump or Co2. I also wonder how it’d handle a good soaking. Suspect turning the silicone boot may prevent water ingress
... yeah also the CO2 is 100% recyclable, unlike the plastic in the battery in that little pump, so I don't think the green comment made any sense, but it did solicit this comment so that's what you're looking for making videos
I still carry my reliably and trusty mini-hand pump.
A mini pump is a great solution to an age old problem.
Nice little bit of kit. Had no idea it existed.
Yeah, it is rather clever. Well made too.
Jon
I have the CycPlus usb pump bigger size and it's brilliant! I track pumped a tyre then used the CycPlus to see what that said, roughly the same as the track pump, so quick.
It's a great little bit of kit..... just a bit noisy 🤣
if it had a small gauge, or some hard stop you could set, that would be amazing
Agreed, it would be a benefit. However, like Co2, it's an emergency pump just to get you moving again. The squeeze test is usually an adequate gauge in those circumstances
Thanks for watching,
Jon
I am stiking with my full size Zefal hpx or my trusty old Silca with the Campagnolo metal head..
Bought x1 from Amazon £67. Easily inflates MTB tyre x2. Great purchase. Cheers
Thanks for the info 👍
The best use case for my rides is on mixed surface rides; that is, no puncture at all. Im a heavy rider and like to switch between 35 and 45 psi once or twice. I still carry the mini pump, but this is quicker, on high volume tires.
Greetings from the great white north, now you got to come over here and test it out a -20. I am a guy, who pack's a way too many tools just out of habit as I identify as a cycle tourer but I would love to have one of those babies in my kit. I wouldn't dump my mini floor pump. Oh, as I have a dynamo hub I could charge it while I cycle. I really enjoyed your product review - you are a hoot and a half.
Tell you what, Hermann, I'll bring the pump, if you bring the flight over 🤣
Glad you're enjoying the videos, thanks.
Combo of hand pump and the newer electrical. Pump with the hand then top off with the electrical. Forget the CO2.. Hard to say with all the tires starting to go tube less. Where in some of the puncture repairs are with a sealer at the site.
Used it a few days ago. Was on a gravel ride, and my tubeless got a puncture...... thorn, so ended up loosing half the pressure in the tyre. I hate those, because you waste a whole C02, just to top the tyre back up. Not with this little thing, stuck it on, sorted! Co2 still has a place, just not for crappy little things like that.
This pump has an uphill battle to try to replace CO2 or mini pumps.
Problem #1: We put CO2 in our emergency kit which may not be opened for weeks or even months (depending on your luck). With a battery pump, you now have to remember to check the charge of the battery regularly, so you aren't left unable to inflate a tube[less].
Problem #2: I bought a 12 pack of CO2 cartridges. This should last years and costs much less than this pump.
Perhaps those that get frequent flats this would be helpful and worth the expense.
I agree with every point, well said 👍
I'll be sticking with tubeless and a pump.
In 50 years, and maybe 150,000 miles, there have been many occasions where I’ve had 3 or more punctures on a ride. I can see the advantages of this, but I would want to carry a trad pump as well, so this new pump means I’m carrying more weight, and I’m wondering whether I really want yet another device to put on charge.
Plus, if it will only charge up two tyres in a warm workshop, how many tires would it charge up if your out in sub zero temperatures in the winter, and when, as we all know, battery capacity degrades with use.
Nice gadget, but it’s a no from me, I’m afraid.
But if you're going on a ride with the possibility of 3 punctures and being stranded, you should be bringing a little power brick with you or two to charge your phone etc. Even if the battery on the device had degraded to the point where it needed to be recharged after 1 puncture, its not really a problem with a power brick.
No chance in hell I would rely on a small Chinese sourced battery powered mechanical device over tried and true co2.
You’ve introduced complexity at the expense of an elegant and simple solution.
I’ve an infrequently ridden bike they hasn’t had a flat in years. I am sure the co2 in it is still good.
Fair point.
I have a Fumpa, which is from an Australian company. This seems to be a knock-off. After a few years, my Fumpa still makes a lot of noise, but it does not pump air. Probably a broken seal or diaphragm, I reckon.
Don't ask how I found out. But it helped to ruin my biggest ride of 2022.
Yeah, aware of Fulpa, Ron. Suspect you're correct with your diaphragm prognosis.
In the last couples weeks Ive had to use my 20+ year old Blackburn mini pump. Still works great and requires very little effort. And unlimited inflations.
Agree with you. The mini pump is a perfect solution to a simple problem. This is just a luxury.
Thanks,
Jon
I was looking at this and ended up with a Xiaomi pump - now its definitely not portable for a fact but i use it to now do the bike tyres 700x 25’s and also the car tyres too relying on a frame fit pump and a co2 cartridge for quickness etc.. (on the bike) so if it was bigger slightly (to get 2 inflations) + a guage I'd have one 👍
Fumpa Pumps is another band that seems to be built better. They have 3 sizes. I don't carry a mini pump anymore.
Thanks, Gary. Have you tried the CycPlus pump then?
@@ribblevalleycyclist While I have not tried the CycPlus pump I noticed on the video that the CycPlus pump is made in China while the Fumpa brand is made in Australia. The Fumpa is quite ruggedly built out of aluminum. I live in the US and have had my Fumpa for 3 years and it has been perfectly reliable. Relative to not carrying a mini pump or CO2 anymore, the pump is good for two flats. I rarely have a single flat, but if I had more than two flats which has never happened , it would be time to call my wife to pick me up.😉
Can't see me ever leaving my mini pump at home but I like the benefit over CO2, and good for air travel. Would be interesting to see how long they last for, I hope they're robust. They look quite bulky, probably about 3 x CO2 cannisters.
It seems very well made. I reckon its equivalent to two canisters.
I just pump, works great, never empty and really not that big or heavy nowadays.
I think this would be really useful as a travel pump when I'm flying, but I don't think I would want to rely on this doing a remote century ride.
I think it has it's place, but as you say, not for every ride type.
I believe, in a short future, with better batteries that will be way more powerful, on the pressure and multiple uses.
I have never been a fan of CO2-pumps. When these get cheaper and you can set a pressure of them, or at least see the pressure, I will by one. But not right now. Right now I go for minipump.
The pressure gauge is a bit of an issue.
i can see a point for both.. for a tour i'd consider the pump, because you can re-charge anywhere (find a co2 canister in rural france??) and you dont need to take 4-5 canisters. for a weekend ride, co2 does the job. If i was organizing a group ride, it's a no brainer, you're likely carrying a battery pack anyway.
Good points well made. Completely agree 👍
Go buy a Birzman hand pump, they are light and work excellent. Best hand pump on the market.
Birzman to make some great product. Their workshop tools a great.
In my region, the price of the Cycplus is that of 43x16oz CO2 canister. Its going to take a hell of a lot of punctures before it starts paying for itself. I get about 5 punctures on average a year, its almost 10 years of punctures. Its a gimic.
Have the Cyclami version and it's superb...2 inflations of 32c to 50psi easily. Wont be going back to a pump.
This is a cool idea. But I prefer my Lezyne pump. 120 psi is more than I need. It takes more time but at least I can fill both tires fully if necessary and keep riding.
Doing this video has taught me that a pump is a personal thing, different people want different things.
Multiple punctures would be my kryptonite with a USB pump. Gazelle E-bike with 28*2.0 tires, and I frequently traverse industrial areas where I've had machine screws rip up tubes. Only one-wheel punctures so far, but I make a point of carrying 2 tubes. If I got a second puncture on the way home with the CycPlus, I'd be out of luck.
28x2.0.... Not sure if it'd do two inflates. Worth checking the other reviews, you may get an answer.
I think this product has a place. Most of my bikes have inner tubes, and this would pump a lot faster than a mini pump. I think for a really long gravel ride (tubeless bike) id pick the compressor and a mini pump. If i flatted and the compressor had to be used, i would charge it with a battery pack after flatting. Worst case, the mini pump would be a backup.
Good shout David. My advice on a tubeless gravel setup would be the compressor and Co2. If your tubeless tyre became unseated after a flat, the mini-pump or compressor wouldn't be able to re-seat the bead, but the Co2 would.
And for every ride you have to charge the DI2 Batterie, your Wahoo, Powermeter and now the pump as well. And it is a noisy little toy! And do not forget to charge your mobile phone - just in case any of your charges failed and you have to call mom.
You forgot to charge your lights 😉
@@ribblevalleycyclist you are absolutely right 🤣
I bring a tire Inflator most times. It is atleast twice the size of the CycPlus, but has a display, multiple presets, air hose (which i prefer), and auto shut off, a flash light, and can charge your phone if you bring a usb cable. Goes to 150 psi, but I haven't tested that. Needs an adapter for presta valve. Since it has an air hose that screws on and auto shut off, I let the tire inflate while I pack up all the other tools and roll up the punctured tube. I keep it in a tool bag that fits in my extra bottle cage.
I still bring a mini pump and CO2 in case the battery runs out. The Inflator I bought cost $40 plus $4 for 2 year warranty replacement thru amazon. I've had it one year and used it a dozen times. It is nice to see a smaller pump like the CycPlus. I'm sure I will get a version of it when my inflator stops working. But that could be a while depending if it is still under warranty.
Having a display really does make a big difference. Also I keep my pump set to 0 psi so it does not accidentally run while in the bag. Not sure if that can be an issue for the CycPlus.
The bigger inflater sounds interesting. CycPlus do something similar I believe, called the A8. However, I'm not sure if you can use it as a separate power supply, that sounds like a great idea. Agreed, the display is helpful, when I was doing that last test, i had no idea how much pressure was in the tyre, and I thought it could be dangerous, turned out to only be 107psi!
Nifty little product. It would be interesting to see how long it lasts before the battery gives out - to properly assess the environmental benefit over co2. I hate disposable co2 canisters, it is a shame to see them strewn along the roadside. Not to mention their misuse.
I'll stick with my mini pump, never had any issues!
Hopefully it will last a while before konking out. Fortunately most people get only two or three flats a year.
It's a good point, one I did consider, but time is needed for that test. I am now using this pump, and will report back in a few months.
Its a bit of a shame that they haven't popped
a small LED screen on it to show the pressure
as it's pumping up the tyre, considering the price.
Its only a matter of time and it will probably happen
and bring the overall price down if the format becomes
popular. Let us see..
I have an electronic inflater can fill up to 120psi, has a screen and different modes.
Really interesting and complete video. Like most new techs, this pump has its pros and cons. Thanks for reviewing them. The remaining questions would be durability, i.e. how long can I depend on those thing working? One year? two?...? Secondly, battery recycle........what happens to the rechargeable battery after it loses its ability to be fully recharged? Only time will tell, I suppose.
Agreed. I am now using this pump, and will report back in a few months.
I could see it replacing my CO2 cannister but definitely not the mini-pump. The concept is great but I would like to know their charge retention when not in use
For me it's the mini pump: mine was 20-something €, it's unobtrusive and always works. And to be I've had my road bike since 2017 (which funnily enough has the "old" fulcrum wheels showed here..) and I've had all of zero punctures until now. Instead I've punctured many times on my MTB (3 times in a single ride once) and mini-pumps always saved the day.
Agree with you, Enrico. The mini pump is a perfect solution to a simple problem. This is just a luxury.
Thanks,
Jon
the last part, right? if you carry a power bank and usb-c cable, you can recharge your mini compressor on the go until your power bank is flat.
Because I have rarely had to fix a flat on a ride I have virtually no experience using my CO2 and pump. It is not something you practice. I have the all or nothing pump that is tricky to hit on the first try. I have had missed and blown both of my cartridges. My bad because I just didn’t get it correctly placed on the valve before it blew its load, and I had no cartridges and a flat tire. I realize that I should get a better pump that allows you to better control when you want to blow out the cartridge. But, I am purchasing this Cyplus pump.
Hi Rick, I've seen many cyclists fire CO2 at a tyre that wasn't seated correctly, and the tyre pops off the bead...... to the detriment of the tube/sealant.
I use mine all the time. The problem I have is tubeless looses air. I don't want to carry a mini pump, and I don't want to waste a CO2 canister on such a small thing..... So the CycPlus is perfect.
Let me know how you get on with the pump. 👍
Hyperbaric! Thanks.
Well done for pointing out the environmental costs of using CO2. It not something that many people think about.
I’ve always thought it’s bonkers, to learn about how CO2 is warming the planet, but then go out and use CO2 instead of just using a mini pump.
Got to be one of the stupidest things ever!
Well, for starters, how reliable is that pump? How long before the seals start wearing out. How long before the compressor self destructs? How long will the battery stay charged? Especially in a hot garage. I maybe get one or two flats a year. So it might be six months or a year before it is used. It would suck to only then discover that the battery is dead. I'll stay with the tried and true CO2 cartridges.
Good points, ones I did consider, but time is needed for that. I am now using this pump, and will report back in a few months. Oh, and it's cold that kills batteries, so you're fine storing them in a warm place....... within reason!
Very interesting. I'm a senior who's been an avid cyclist all my life. I have, however, dealt with severe arthritis in my wrists and using a mini -pump is a challenge.
I perused the Cycplus web site and have discovered they offer a total of three electric pumps at different price points, one claiming a max of 150psi. Any chance you can do a review of all three? I'd like to see the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Hi Andrew, I'll drop them an email
You could've included a timer for each go, but this is really a Fumpa killer. It makes me want to buy one and just leave the huge 600g Xiaomi portable compressor at home. But I think I'll wait for the price to go down. :D
Hi,
To be honest, I didn’t think people would care about how long it took to pump up, just that it did. However, a few people have said this. From memory, it took roughly 1-30 to 2 mins. Check out the review by The Bike Sauce, he times it:
czcams.com/video/xdRej7fGrU8/video.htmlsi=Nkp3xG7Pij8vA4V1
Thanks @@ribblevalleycyclist for the link to The Bike Sauce. I guess I won't be replacing my trusty ol' Xiaomi yet, then. :)
I like the new cube pump I'm buying one, and, I always have a small power pack for whatever. Co2 is unreliable (I find) and mini pumps are a pain
Hi Scott,
Let us know how you get on with it 👍
Thanks,
Jon
A C02 cartridge is cheaper, faster and not as noisy... pack some ear plugs with that thing! It would be better if that thing had a digital gauge integrated you could watch while it pumps.
Agreed, it would be a benefit. However, like Co2, it's an emergency pump just to get you moving again. The squeeze test is usually an adequate gauge in those circumstances
Assuming you already have a CO2 nozzle, let's say CO2 cartridge is $3 CAD and the pump new is about $100CAD. It means that after 33 CO2 cartridges you are breaking even. Not sure that math works since its either spending $25 upfront or $100 upfront, plus the battery on the unit will degrade over time whether used or not and if you forget to charge it regularly it will not work next time you really need it.
great idea. won't ship to me in Canada nor USA from Zon though
Strange that. Did you try direct from CycPlus?:
www.cycplus.com/products/tiny-pump-cube?ref=PKFc7sKhriwwBy&variant=42455220191390
It needs a gauge! Then yes I’ll buy one
Agreed, it would be a benefit. However, like Co2, it's an emergency pump just to get you moving again. The squeeze test is usually an adequate gauge in those circumstances
It’s just more pollution and landfill material.
Remember that the Li-Ion battery will last 2-3 years at best even if you never use it.
You don’t have to carry a mini pump, remember the full-size hand pump that hook onto your frame?
Pick a simple pump that can be opened and maintained: rubbers need TLC.
Wondering why modern bikes don't include storage for a frame pump or electric flat repair in the frame. All my bottle openers have not come in handy with my friends leaky tires :)
I've got an electric pump from Fumpa. The biggest one with nummerical pressure and battery display. CO2 was never really an option for me. As a consumable I would never dare use it, because then it's gone. Also having to throw it away. Neither aluminum (the cans) nor CO2 is any more environmentally friendly produced than the electic pump, I'd guess. Also it's not precise and bad for many tubeless sealants (mostly because it gets freezing cold). Electric pump is very easy tocuse, especially with pressure display and I use it to change the pressure for different surfaces, too. Wouldn't bother with a mini pump and if course not with CO2. Because I frequently use it for such adaptations or to top up when a tire has lost some pressurenin storage, I regularly charge it and it's typically not empty, when I want to use it. (Well, recently I probably left it on and it was completely dead.) On longer rides I have a large power bank with me, so I could always recharge if needed, but I also have a mini pump with me. I can use the mini pump, when the electric pump does bot work anymore. Or when I have a long ride and don't want to use the battery charge too early, I can use the mini pump for low pressure and do only the hard part with the electric one. Even at home I might use the electric one over the large floor pump, because it is so easy and convenient, maybe even faster over all. For large volume low pressure I rather use the floor pump (if it's a good one), because the electric overheats. But I am talking proper 26"x4" 100-559 fatbike tires. Then again I usem for adjusting the pressure even kn those tires, though, because the analog gauge on my race tire compatible floor pump is not too precisely readable at 7PSI 0,5Bar. 😆
I've seen that one from Fumpa, it's a nice bit of kit. I've also watched the video from CG Performance on the Fanttik X8, that looks interesting too. Link below to his review.
czcams.com/video/P-3m1qwN-gg/video.html
Would be really sweet if it had a pressure gauge built onto it
Agreed, it would be a benefit. However, like Co2, it's an emergency pump just to get you moving again. The squeeze test is usually an adequate gauge in those circumstances
Two of mine caught on fire this morning .
The biggest risk with these is that you get a puncture, you produce the Cycplus, the group gather to watch, and something goes wrong
If it's charged, and you've not got a broken tubeless seal, then you'll be fine. If you run tubeless, consider your options.
I personally experienced the opposite. Rider in the group gets a flat and I pull out my new cycplus and the group is collectively amazed and asking how they can find one for themselves after tire is effortlessly pumped up
TBH, I think C02 will always be faster than these. So, co2+this gadget is the new belt and suspenders
I agree. I suspect thats what I'll end up doing.
Good review, I'm sticking with CO2.
Doing this video has taught me that a pump is a personal thing, different people want different things.
Most or these pumps are slow due to small volume. It does sound like it would be good when you use tubes but It looks as if it would be inferior to CO2 for tubeless. It would be good to see that test done as well.
Hi AnotherFailedProject,
The last tyre/wheel had a tube. It's great for tubeless, as long as the seal is still in place. However, if the tyre has unseated, then Co2 would be better.
Thanks for watching,
Jon
Another gadget to have to rember to charge? I don't get flats often enough to make it worth the hassle.
It pumped one tyre to 107psi of one charge. What happens when you are out on the road and you get a second puncture, (i.e. before you have not been able to recharge the unit? I think I'll stick with my 'Old Faithful Lezyne Road Drive. It doesn't matter how many punctures I get, it will always be there for me. Also, it gives me a small cardio workout while I'm pumping. Great for fitness.
If 100psi is what you need, then you may want to consider your options. Doing this video has taught me that a pump is a personal thing, different people want different things.
I can see this appealing to tech nerds but at £80 it doesn't offer any significant advantage over traditional kit. I always bring a gas canister and my low tech Topeak Pocket Rocket mini pump which I've had for years. Relying on battery powered equipment is always high risk.
I ain’t gonna disagree with any of that, Harry 👍
The problem is that you need another thing to keep charged every ride. Now it is computer, radar light. And then this thing comes in to. I wil stick to CO2 for that reason.
Co2 is a great solution, MrLeovanderMeer 👍
For cycling I wouldn't consider anything that relies on batteries unless there's no other option. Inflating your tube with co2 is so satisfying, it takes 2 seconds to inflate to 100psi. How long does it take to inflate the tube using the Pump Cube?
Good point, archiecraig. It took roughly two minutes. For me though, speed isn't a concern when inflating a tyre.
Thanks,
Jon
it''ll take about 3 minute to get to 75 psi for 28mm tire
I have the cycplus a2 and its great. Mine has a built-in digital pressure gauge, flashlight and can act as a spare battery bank
You can set the desired psi and it will shut off when it reaches it.
As for whether it will replace my mini pump. Of course not. I carry them both. Remember one is a rechargeable battery ( which needs to be fully charged) the other is tried and true manual. Best of both worlds.
Can't say that when it comes to electronic shifting. Once the battery dies you can't switch it to manual.
Finally. Aren't bikes that have electronic shifting considered E bikes. The differences between 1 ebike vs the other is the size of the battery , motor and placement of the controls Both are ebikes i believe.
Sorry for the rant. Cheers god save the King
Sounds great. Is it heavy?
About a pound but worth it Just ask all the people I've helped with it
@tmayberry7559 Thanks. Worth knowing 👍
Is there a way to set pressure delivered? Pumping hookless tubeless tyres to 100 psi is dangerous from what I have seen.
Agreed, going over 5 BAR on hookless is dangerous. The idea of the Cycplus pump is to get you out of trouble. Pumping by feel just to get you back on the move is fine, and if it's a hookless rim, don't go over the top.
So, just another thing for my bike that needs to be charged. My Garmin, my lights, now my flat protection. I guarantee the first time you need this thing will be the time when you forget to charge it. Too complicated. I will stick to CO2. like was said here. They can sit in my saddle bag for years and they always work when you need them.
You forgot the mobile, the powermeter, the cadence sensor, the 2 e-shift handles, the front and back dereilleur, the Go Pro batt, the wireless break batts ...
People are just too stupid to keep their lifes simple 😂😂😂😂
But.... how long can you leave the cycplus in your bag before recharging? I can see it being a pain in the ass to try and remember that it has to be recharged weekly or biweekly.... when it's sitting in the bikebag just waiting to be called-on.
It's a good point, one I did consider, but time is needed for that test. I am now using this pump, and will report back in a few months.
Damn shame Cycplus doesn’t have an integrated digital display that allows to preset a specific pressure with automatic shut off! Now that would be the perfect pump! A huge missed opportunity in my opinion.
It’s a good point.
I think the best use case is probably for MTBs where riders are running 25-30psi in larger volume tyres and 20psi would get most people home. On the road I'm running 25/28mm tyres at 75-85psi again a lower pressure (say 60psi) would get you out of trouble which sounds fine, in theory a fully charged cycplus cube will manage 2 flats, but how long lasting/durable is the battery in these things? Is it going to be able to blast a tyre up to 100psi when it's a couple of years old and has experienced winter and summer temperatures in a saddlebag?
What might have been interesting to know as well as achievable pressures, was how long each inflation took, and how long completely draining it takes under load...
The idea is good but the price is high and it's not a bulletproof solution...
Hi Chungleas,
Doing this video has taught me that a pump is a personal thing, different people want different things.
Oh, and between 1.5 & 2 minutes. I never completely drained it.
What do you do when you need to fix a second puncture?
It’ll pump up two road tyres. If you’ve got a big trip planned, you’ll need to consider a manual option. 👍
Curious how this would work out on a small car tire?🤔
Would it get you at least mobile from a flat?
Just top up a low tire to safe pressure?
Maybe just enough to make the donut spare that everyone forgets to check get to a service station?
While it’s not designed for that, random stuff is often used to get out of a pinch.
I've actually thought the same. In the glovebox with a USB power pack.........
You’re kidding right? Have you ever used a track pump on a car tyre? It works but takes ages. You wouldn’t notice you’d tried to pump it up.
I like this hype. 🤣The company must have put some serious money on influencers. I'am not risking my ride with this gadget.
I actually contacted them and asked me to send me one, not the other way around!
How long did it take to pump it up to 100 psi? One minute 2 minutes 5 minutes?
Probably around 2 minutes.
CO2 never discharges plus they fill a 29" x 2.4" in seconds without charging😂. I'll defo stick to CO2 and my mini pump as back up ta 👍
Good points that I'll agree with 👍
i run 28 tire i find it hard to get the pressure over 80psi on regular clincher
after 70 psi it barely move air due to the lack of pressure
i think overall its pretty good for tubeless setup thats under 70psi
since one can get 2x-3x sometime.
one downside is u cant use it with the new plastic tube since the heat form the pump it actually melts the tire valve
theres a next gen thats coming out it'll have a display to show u the psi
saw it in one of the recent bike shows
I'm confident that this pump would get a 28 up to 80 psi..... not sure how many times though!
Melting plastic tubes..... Do we know this to be fact?
Yeah, CycPlus offer this, but its a big unit. Would be nice to see something smaller.
yep its fact :-( when the pump heats up it'll expand the removeable core and valve junction area. TPU tube like tubolito the valve core is metal and the value are usually plastic.i was testing to see how long it'll take to pump 100psi and since it took awhile it started to heat up and it seperated the junction area. with regular metal valve and core it will be fine. in my experience it works best around 65-70psi which is perfect for my tubless setup. also the one im talking about is a prototype which is slightly bigger size as the one youre reviewing but with an addition small psi screen. pretty cool but hope they can do better on the psi aspsect since i find anything over 80 takes about 3-5 minute
dc rainmaker shows the new version
Best Eurobike Sports Tech: With A Reality Check! at 2:15 second
@@ribblevalleycyclist
@@ribblevalleycyclist theres actually a new extender valve which prevent the melting now by taking the heat conduction off the valve
@@housepfhoopz Yes, saw this recently. I wouldn’t have thought it would’ve generated enough heat to cause an issue….. but maybe it does.
@ribblevalleycyclist lol ya it actually losen up the valve junction of my tubolito tube 🤣 n it started leaking air
Mini pump all the way for me. This is one gadget I wouldn't dream of getting, and I'm always:
1) On the lookout for new gadgets
2) A master at justifying the purchase of new gadgets to myself and my wife
Personally I wouldn’t lose the bike pump but co2 could be on its way out but like everything when they start mass producing the cost will come down