Zefal Alaskan Graph track pump

The claimed 100psi in eight strokes might be gilding the lily a touch - it took me 10 to get a 700x18 to that pressure - but Zefal’s Alaskan Graph floor pump is a pint sized powerhouse boasting excellent build quality, super steady base, tactile composite handle and accurate gauge. However, the design requires a more taxing push/pull rhythm and its compact size can leave taller riders feeling uncomfortably stooped during prolonged use – say pumping the tyres on multiple bikes. That though is a trade-off against what for many might be its usefully small size. Undoubtedly a good unit, some minor imperfections in the current model require ironing out to fully justify the price tag.

At over 2kg the Alaskan is reassuringly solid thanks to a predominantly metal construction which also makes for more efficient inflation and means that it shrugs off casual carelessness. Key to the design’s prowess is the double aluminium barrel delivering twice the pressure for each stroke of the wide and surprisingly tactile composite handle. Compact at 62 centimetres, it’s a great companion for race days and  those needing to make efficient use of available space. However, standing a modest 1m 81, I felt uncomfortably stooped over longer periods, say when inflating a fleet of five or six bikes with flat tyres… okay maybe not a common occurrence for most people.

Positioning the gauge at the top would certainly help, although Zefal acknowledge this and are refining the design for 2011. Other changes include a smart head design-ours was the slightly fiddly, although arguably more durable reversible type. However, the integrated bleed valve is a godsend should you get carried away which is easily done given the design’s efficiency.

From zero to 120psi in a 700x24 took fifteen strokes - roughly forty seconds (twelve for a 700x20) and a very respectable twenty-two raised a 26x1.75 from pancake flat to the recommended 70. By way of comparison, my mainstay inflator manages the same pressures in twenty-two, seventeen and forty-six strokes respectively. While otherwise reasonably clear and accurate when checked against a separate digital unit, positioning the gauge at the feet can also make quick checks tricky so set the red marker against the desired pressure first.

Verdict

Good, efficient track pump, some  tweaks to the 2011 model help justify the price tag