Air pumps usually display the air pressure inaccurately. If you don't want to rely on your own thumb-press feeling and value precise adjustment, you should use a measuring device.
DRC G101
The only analogue pressure gauge in the test weighs almost 100 grams. The measurement is very constant and only around 0.1 bar below the calibrated reference value. We were less pleased with the fact that the exact value is difficult to read. On a positive note, only a small amount of air pressure is lost during use and the device is equipped with a pressure release.
Price15,95 Euro >> e.g. available from Maciag Offroad
Handling 4 out of 6 points
Accuracy 5 out of 6 points
Schwalbe Airmax Pro
You can tell by looking at this probably best-selling air pressure gauge that its price is low. But that doesn't matter. The device is easy to operate with just one button. The Airmax Pro measures approx. 0.12 bar (fairly constant) below the reference value and only causes the tyre to lose about 0.01 bar of air pressure during use. Good: The device emits helpful signals in the form of loud beeps.
Price16,90 Euro >> e.g. available at Rosebikes
Handling 5 out of 6 points
Accuracy 5 out of 6 points
SKS Airchecker
The Airchecker sits comfortably in the hand and has an illuminated display. The device constantly measures 0.15 bar below the calibrated reference value, but only displays the values to an accuracy of 0.05 bar. But it does so in less than a second. Unfortunately, the tyre loses a noticeable amount of air when connecting and disconnecting. When operating the deflation function, the device must be placed on the valve again.
Price19,99 Euro >> e.g. available at Rosebikes
Handling 4 out of 6 points
Accuracy 4 out of 6 points
TOPEAK Smart Gauge D2
The Smart Gauge D2 looks robust and scores points with its good workmanship. The measured values are constantly 0.2 bar below the actual value and are displayed in no time at all. The device should be placed on the valve quickly so that not too much air escapes. The air release mode works very well. It is a pity that the measured values are only shown to one decimal place on the display.
Price29,95 Euro >> e.g. available at Bobshop
Handling 5 out of 6 points
Accuracy 3 out of 6 points
How BIKE:
Handling: Uncomplicated and reliable operation and practical application.
Accuracy: Deviation of the measured values from the calibrated measurement (2 bar) and differentiation of the value.
Stefan Frey
Editor
