SKS 2138 Track Pump

This pump has been left at my bike park at work for a number of weeks for all commuters to use and I have seen it in action on a number of occasions. I couldn't think of a better way of testing a track pump: it has been used on 700c, 26” and 20”, inflating to different pressures. It's been well used and well liked, but you can get better performance for not much more.

The retro styling and British Racing Green metallic paint job give the impression this pump would be at home at Le Mans or Brooklands in the 30s. The stainless steel folding feet, wooden handle and steel barrel look great but do not seem that sturdy by modern standards. There's a push-fit adaptor attached to the pump by a small chain which allows you to work easily with shraeder and presta valves. It can be a bit fiddly but works well once you've got the hang of it. The folding feet, while very classical in design, are not very stable: you really have to plant your feet well. It's capable of inflating to 114 psi according to the manufacturer, though there's no gauge to track your progress. I could only get as far as 108 with my 700c x 23s, but for me that's plenty hard!

You don't get much for £13 these days but the SKS functions well and has a certain bygone charm that will appeal to some. If you like that in a track pump then this is the one to go for; if you prefer a bit more performance (and a gauge) then the £15 Revolution track pump is the best budget offering we've tried

Verdict

Classical looks but beaten on performance by other budget models