Shock pumps for bikesTopeak Pocketshock DXG in test

Stefan Frey

 · 30.12.2023

The small Topeak is the ideal companion for tours and fits in every rucksack
Photo: Stefan Frey

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.

Modern air suspension on MTBs requires precise tuning, which is not possible without a shock pump. But which pump really measures accurately? And are digital pumps better than analogue ones? In our test, we tested 13 current shock pumps and present them here one after the other. Modern MTB air suspension requires precise tuning with a shock pump. We have tested 13 models. Today: the Topeak Pocketshock DXG.

Topics in this article

Topeak Pocketshock DXG - Equipment

The handle, valve head with pressure loss protection and the pressure release button are identical to the expensive digital pump from Topeak. However, thanks to the shorter metal cylinder and the small analogue pressure gauge, the DXG is even more compact, making it the smallest shock pump in the test.

The smallest pump in the test and therefore also ideal for the rucksackPhoto: Stefan FreyThe smallest pump in the test and therefore also ideal for the rucksack

The handle and pressure gauge are partially rubberised for a better grip, and there is a small clip on the handle to hold the hose in place. Unlike the Pocketshock Digital, the hose is not protected by a plastic braid and is also slightly shorter at 98 mm.

Handling

Despite its small handle, the Topeak shock pump sits comfortably in the hand. It can be gripped securely at the front of the pressure gauge without having to activate the air release valve while pumping. The small, slightly rubberised plastic handle is also comfortable as long as the pressure is not too high. Then the Pocketshock DXG becomes much more sluggish and requires a lot of manual force.

Despite the slim shape, it pumps comfortably with the rubberised handlePhoto: Stefan FreyDespite the slim shape, it pumps comfortably with the rubberised handle

Due to the compact design, the volume is also very small and it takes a long time to fill a damper to 150 psi. The small display is difficult to read and sometimes deviates from the actual pressure by more than 5 psi. The valve head and pressure release button, on the other hand, work very reliably.

How do you like this article?
Speaking of reliability: We have been using the extensively equipped Topeak Prepstation in our tests for years. Anyone looking for the ultimate toolbox for the workshop or for racing should take a look here.
Very small pressure gauge with detailed scale. Top valve head with decoupling function. The pressure gauge is protected by a rubber sleeve and the pressure release button can be adjusted easilyPhoto: Stefan FreyVery small pressure gauge with detailed scale. Top valve head with decoupling function. The pressure gauge is protected by a rubber sleeve and the pressure release button can be adjusted easily

Measuring accuracy

At low pressure, the deviation of the Topeak shock pump is around 5 psi. As the pressure increases, the measurement accuracy decreases. At 150 psi, the DXG was around 8 psi below the actual value. The scaling of the pressure gauge in steps of 5 is unusual and not very clear.

Topeak Pocketshock DXG - Details and price

  • Weight 178 g
  • Display analogue / 36 mm diameter
  • Print area max. 360 psi
  • Pump / hose length 208 mm / 98 mm
  • Equipment Pressure release button; pressure loss protection; handle with rubber coating; metal cylinder; rubberised pressure gauge; hose clip
  • Price 49,95 Euro >> available here

Valuation at a glance

Deviation¹ 80 psi / psi per stroke 75 psi / 0.84 psi

The handling of the small Topeak is convincing. Measured values and readability could be betterPhoto: Stefan FreyThe handling of the small Topeak is convincing. Measured values and readability could be better

Conclusion: Topeak Pocketshock DXG

The Pocketshock scores with its high-quality workmanship and small pack size - making it a good companion on tour. Despite its compact design, the Topeak shock pump is comfortable to hold. The valve head, hose and drain valve work perfectly. The only thing to remember is the activation wheel when unscrewing. Even if the scale itself is easy to read: Overall, the pressure gauge is quite small and the measured values deviate from the actual value by approx. 5 psi. However, if you are looking for a reliable pump that is always with you, this is the right choice.

¹ BIKE measured values; ²BIKE grade: The BIKE rating is based on the school grading system with grades 1 to 5

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

Most read in category Workshop