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Even though Blackburn has Airtower all-round pump, it doesn't exactly scratch the cloud cover with its size. At 67.5 centimetres, the floor pump is rather average. Apart from the steel piston and cylinder, the Blackburn uses a lot of plastic.
With a length of 87.5 centimetres, the hose is rather short. The pressure gauge is pleasantly large and fairly straightforward, which is very helpful when reading it. It is a pity that, as with most pumps, the bar scale is on the inside and therefore rather small. At least the scale shows the current value in 0.2 bar increments.
A special feature is the large multifunctional pump head, which automatically adjusts to the respective valve. The clamping lever with the so-called R.A.D. Lock is particularly well designed, sits comfortably in the hand and is very easy to attach to the valve.
Blackburn Airtower Comp - Info & Price
| Blackburn Airtower Comp | |
| Weight | 1.11 kg |
| Size (min./max.) | 67.5 / 117.5 cm |
| Hose length | 87.5 cm |
| Maximum pressure | 9.6 Bar |
| Pressure gauge size | 7.7 cm |
| Strokes from 0.5 to 2.5 bar | 35 |
| Deviation at 2.5 bar | 0.15 bar |
| Valve types | Presta, Schrader, Dunlop |
| Equipment | Universal pump head with hinged catch, plastic stand |
| Price | 50 Euro >> available here |
Practical test: good head, weak stand
In the test, the floor pump from Blackburn shows a mixed picture. While the pump head impresses with its clever operation, there are clear weaknesses in terms of stability, ergonomics and efficiency.
Stability & processing
The biggest criticism is the extremely wobbly stand. Even at low pressures, the pump tilts noticeably to the left and right. This is due to the very torsion-prone plastic base, which offers hardly any stability. The pump feels unsteady and imprecise, especially when pumping hard - a problem that quickly becomes annoying in everyday use.
The hose is comparatively short, which further restricts handling. The handle looks rather simple, but is surprisingly comfortable to hold and not too angular.
Pumping behaviour & effort
In direct comparison, the Blackburn requires noticeably more strokes to reach the desired pressure. The hand forces also increase significantly early on, which is particularly unpleasant at higher pressures. This is a clear disadvantage for frequent pumpers or riders with small hands.
Pressure gauge: decent, but not perfect
The pressure gauge looks tidy and clear, displays the pressure in 0.2 bar increments and is solidly made. However, the accuracy is a little off and the bar scale could be larger - the readability is only average.
Pump head: the highlight
The pump head is by far the best component of the Blackburn. The special clamping system makes it easy to attach and remove with just one hand. Further plus points: The pump head serves both valve types without conversion, is stable and absolutely airtight, and practically no air escapes when it is removed. Blackburn thus provides a solution that makes many more expensive pumps look old.
Conclusion & rating: Blackburn Airtower Comp
| Category | Grade |
| Handling (40%) | 2,8 |
| Valve head (30%) | 2,1 |
| Pressure gauge (30%) | 2,6 |
| BIKE NOTE | 2,6 |
The Blackburn pump scores with an excellent pump head, but fails in basic areas such as stability, hose length and efficiency. It is sufficient for occasional use - those who pump regularly or need high pressures will find more stable and energy-saving alternatives.
Advantages
- Excellent pump head with one-hand operation
- Airtight clamping, no pressure loss when pulling off
- Clear pressure gauge
Disadvantages
- Very wobbly stand due to flexible plastic base
- Short hose
- High force required even at low pressures
- Overall not very efficient
Stefan Frey
Editor
