When electronic inflators started to arrive in the office, they weren’t something I was desperate to own.
But that’s all changed since one chance encounter with the Topeak E-Booster Digital inflator.
Up until now, my trusty track pump and Topeak digital pressure gauge had been my go-to when it came to setting up test bikes. Getting tyre pressures sorted across a few bikes in one sitting can take a little time, but with my pump and gauge, I was never desperate to switch up my system.
On a recent photoshoot, I tried this dinky Topeak inflator for the first time and now, I’m not sure I could live without it.
SQUIRREL_TEXT_13238860
Piling on the pressure
While that all sounds rather dramatic, using this little black box made a difference to me.
I had four bikes to prep before hitting the trails and the Topeak inflator made life much easier.
Having read Warren’s article on why he wants to ditch his mini-pump for good, I can now see where he’s coming from.
The E-Booster Digital can, Topeak claims, inflate four 29in mountain bike tyres in a single charge, or in my case, top up eight of them. Or, it should be capable of doing three road tyres, inflating to a maximum of 120psi.
Charging takes around 45 minutes via a USB-C lead, which is included in the box.
On the back, you’ll find a small digital display (claimed to be accurate to +/- 2psi), where you can easily pre-set your desired pressure before you start inflating.
There’s also a slider switch on top, enabling you to switch quickly between Presta and Schrader valve heads.
Little black box
I’ve owned a lot of Topeak tools over the years – I still swear by the brand's digital pressure gauge and digital shock pump, which I use each week – so would hope the E-Booster Digital inflator should last.
It appears to be built solidly from a mix of aluminium and what Topeak refers to as “engineering grade polymer” and comes with a sleek little rubber cover to help protect it from the odd bit of rough and tumble.
At 187g (with the rubber cover on), it’s pretty light, too. And, at 59x38x88mm, it’s not exactly massive, either.
Along with the charging lead, Topeak includes a carry bag, instructions and a valve extender, which adds around an extra 80mm in reach and is flexible.
Because it’s a bulky little item, I’m not sure I’d want to ride with it in my pack, but I’m going to give it a shot and will be sure to let you know what happens in a full review soon.
SQUIRREL_13238860
