In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
Zéfal Z Shock - Equipment
The Z Shock* not only comes in a unique look, it also has a few special features. The handle, piston and cylinder of the damper pump are made of metal. At the other end, a three-dimensional rubber grip is designed to improve handling.
The pressure gauge and hose can be rotated 360 degrees independently of each other so that the display is always easy to read. The valve head is rotated by 90 degrees. It also has a two-stage closure to prevent air loss. If the pressure is too high, it can be adjusted using a large knob.
Handling
Thanks to its large, rubberised handle, the Zéfal shock pump sits comfortably in the hand. The metal handle on the piston rod is also comfortable. The connection between the pressure gauge and hose is a little too tight. This means that the display sometimes twists slightly during pumping. However, the pressure gauge can always be turned easily in the direction of view.
With its large volume, the Z Shock fills the fork and damper with just a few strokes. The manual force remains low. The pressure release button hangs at high pressures and is also difficult to adjust. The angled valve head was also not fully convincing. It can get tight with valves that are deep-seated or hidden in the frame. On the other hand, we were unable to detect any air loss with the Zéfal shock pump even when the valve head was unscrewed without first decoupling it.
Measuring accuracy
Because the Zéfal's display goes up to 400 psi, the scaling is correspondingly compact. This makes it difficult to read an exact value. However, the damper pump measures quite accurately. Deviations of 1 to 2 psi are kept within reasonable limits. We did not notice any loss of pressure when unscrewing the valve head - neither with the locking screw open nor closed. A little air only escapes into the hose when the valve is fitted or opened.
Zéfal Z Shock - Details and price
- Weight 240 g
- Display analogue / 38 mm diameter
- Print area max. 400 psi
- Pump / hose length 280 mm / 120 mm
- Equipment Cylinder, piston and handle made of metal; hose and pressure gauge can be rotated 360 degrees; pressure release button; pressure loss protection
- Price 49,95 Euro >> available here
Valuation at a glance
Deviation¹ 80 psi / psi per stroke 79 psi / 1.81 psi
Conclusion: The Zéfal Z Shock shock pump in the test
Typically French: the Zéfal has a unique look. The pressure gauge and hose can be rotated independently on several levels - so you always have a good view of the scale. Its rubber handle sits comfortably in the hand. No damper pump creates more volume. The manual forces remain within reasonable limits. Although the Zéfal measures quite accurately, the scale up to 400 psi is difficult to read precisely. The angled valve head does not fit on low-lying or hidden valves, and at higher pressures the release valve snags. Too bulky and heavy for the rucksack.
Are you still looking for more clever tools? We have Swat tools and mini pumps tested and say which parts are worth the money.
¹ BIKE measured values; ²BIKE grade: The BIKE rating is based on the school grading system with grades 1 to 5
Stefan Frey
Editor
