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SKS Airflex Explorer mini pump - Features
You can read it on the piston of the SKS pump with every pump stroke: The Airflex Explorer is Made in Germany. This is of course all the better when you consider that the majority of the test candidates roll off the production line somewhere in Asia. The SKS is equipped with a robust dust cap behind which there is an extendable hose.
The valve head can be easily converted from Presta to Schrader via a thread. This eliminates the need for annoying conversions, where in the worst case scenario the pump head disappears somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Pleasant: the generously rubberised handle of the SKS mini pump.
Handling / processing
The aluminium-plastic mix of the Airflex is visually appealing. When pumping, however, the piston wobbles noticeably in the cylinder - typical of SKS. We like the practical valve head, which can be switched between valve types via a simple screw connection without having to remove a component. The centred division of the pump means that both hands have a good grip. The rubber coating on the rear part of the pump also contributes to the high level of comfort. There is no risk of crushing your fingers.
Pumping capacity / manual force
With just over 120 strokes per bar, the SKS ranks in the middle of the field. This means that it can still comfortably inflate thick MTB tyres, but also reliably inflate gravel tyres thanks to its maximum pressure of 5 bar. Sensitive riders may be bothered by the quiet rattling of the hose on bumpy gravel tracks.
Are you looking for a floor pump for the workshop rather than a mini pump for travelling? Read our last detailed test of 10 floor pumps.
SKS Airflex Explorer mini pump - info & price
- Price 34,99 Euro >> at Liquid Life or Bike Components
- Weight 135 g / 14 g
- Length / Diameter 205 mm / 31 mm
- Valve type Presta / Schrader
- Equipment Dust cap; extendable hose; soft grip; holder
- Pump strokes per bar / pressure max. 120 / 5 bar
Conclusion & evaluation
Apart from the somewhat high hand forces and the not quite optimal workmanship, the SKS is an absolutely recommendable pump for MTB and gravel. Thanks to the centre split, it offers a good grip for both hands and the rubber coating on the pump hand is very comfortable. The pump head, which can be easily switched between Presta and Schrader valves, is also impressive. Somewhat annoying: the rattling of the hose inside the pump.
Click here to go back to our overview article: 11 mini pumps in the test. There you will find all the important information on the subject as well as the remaining 10 models in the test field.
* Note: Weight, size and pump strokes per bar are BIKE measurements. We measured the pump strokes per bar with a precision manometer on the volume corresponding to a 29x2.35 inch tyre. The maximum pressure is a manufacturer's specification.
Stefan Frey
Editor
