Lezyne’s pen gauge is a replacement specific hose for the brand’s M(edium) and L(arge) HP series mini pumps complete with integral pressure gauge, precision machined Presta/Schrader ends and durable hose.

While there’s no denying the aesthetic beauty and clever detailing, the gauge is tricky to read-especially in low light and 15 quid while not unreasonable for the quality of construction is halfway to a new pump, let alone a replacement attachment. That said, consumables are readily available from dealers meaning it should last a good while.

Measuring 19.5cm, the hose is longer than most thanks in part to the integral pressure gauge that gives readings to a 120psi (8 bar) maximum-greater than even the strongest will achieve from a frame fit, let alone pocket inflator and the red marker provides a useful in-a-glance reference, although this is something of a moot point should you be unfortunate enough to flat along a dark lane without portable illumination. In many respects it’s a double-edged sword- very user friendly and much kinder to valve ends on the one hand but less efficient than some high-pressure press-fits. Measured alongside a high quality digital model, the readings I got were very accurate and within the quoted 5psi deviation. However, regularly inspect this connection to ensure the cylinder hasn’t slackened as this not only reduces accuracy but also permits condensation inside.

Enclosure within the pump barrel provides excellent protection from damage caused by dirt, water, spills and road/trail shock. Attempts to pair it to frame fit and other mini pumps have proved a little hit and miss, limiting the appeal slightly and in this context a digital pressure gauge with backlight might be more prudent.

Verdict

Well crafted and clever hose kit but incompatibility with other brands limits appeal.

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road.cc test report

Make and model: Lezyne Pen gauge hose

Size tested: n/a

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

The pen gauge hose as the name suggests, is a replacement hose for Lezyne series mini pumps complete with integral pressure gauge. To this end it does exactly what it says on the tin.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

19.5 cm long, 120psi (8bar) maximum, CNC machined Presta/Schrader ends, durable hose.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
 
7/10
Rate the product for durability:
 
7/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
8/10

20g

Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
7/10
Rate the product for value:
 
7/10

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

There's no doubting the design works very well and is in the main very pleasant to use, if lacking the outright convenience of smart-head push on ends. However, the gauge while very accurate isn't so easy to read in low light and a being brand specific limits the appeal slightly.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Nice design and good build quality with ready spares availability.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Nothing in particular, although the gauge could be improved.

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes

Would you consider buying the product? So long as I had a compatible Lezyne pump

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes, so long as they had a Lezyne pump

Overall rating: 7/10

About the tester

Age: 36  Height: 1m 81  Weight: 70 kilos

I usually ride: Rough Stuff Tourer Based around 4130 Univega mtb Frameset  My best bike is: 1955 Holdsworth Road Path and several others including cross & traditional road

I've been riding for: Over 20 years  I ride: Most days  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: cyclo cross, commuting, touring, fixed/singlespeed, mtb,