Buzz
If you're not a regular at bike shops, this might come as a surprise (it certainly did for me). Those small emergency hand pumps aren't your only option when you face a flat tire on the road. CO2 cartridge pumps exist, and I’d consider them a game-changer.
Essentially, a CO2 cartridge contains carbon dioxide compressed into a compact form. Your tire isn’t picky about what fills it; regular air works, but CO2 is equally effective. All you need is a tool to transfer the compressed CO2 from the cartridge into your tire, and bike accessory manufacturers have created a range of compact devices for this purpose.
A basic CO2 tire inflator is a small connector that links the cartridge to your bike’s valve. However, certain features can enhance the device’s usability and convenience:
A control switch to halt the CO2 flow once the tire reaches the desired pressure
A pressure indicator to monitor the amount of CO2 injected into the tire
A protective sleeve or casing to shield your hand from the cartridge, as it rapidly cools during use
These tools are priced at approximately $20, with cartridges costing about $1 each when purchased in bulk. While they offer quick tire inflation without manual effort, there are some drawbacks to consider.
One issue is the environmental impact, as each flat tire requires discarding a cartridge. Additionally, you need to ensure you have an adequate supply of cartridges for your journey. Imagine packing two cartridges but encountering three flats—preparation is key. If you choose this method, always carry extra cartridges to avoid being stranded.
