5 irresistible benefits of using CO2 inflators
CO2 inflator
Even a few years ago, a hand pump was the only thing that could save the day you put on a tire. But times have changed, and with the advent of CO2 inflators, cyclists have been free to go further and faster without carrying heavy equipment to fix a flat bicycle tire. Here is a quick list of the reasons why CO2 inflators are a great advantage for cyclists.
What are CO2 inflators?
CO2 inflators are compact metal containers that are filled with highly pressurized carbon dioxide gas. Although they have a variety of uses, they are commonly used by cyclists to re-inflate flat tires or to fill the new tubes they have installed in their tires.
What are the advantages of CO2 inflators?
CO2 inflators have several benefits over other inflation solutions. These are some of the key benefits.
1) The time factor: CO2 inflators save time because they fill your tire much faster than air pumps. When a tire is punctured, a CO2 inflator can recharge the tire and get it going in just a few minutes.
2) The stress factor: Unlike air pumps, CO2 inflators retain gas at high pressure, making them extremely easy to use with minimal effort. All you need to do is connect it to the rim, push the button and sit back, not worrying about the pumping exercise the air pumps need, which means a breakdown can be a proper break before hitting the road.
3) The portability factor: Being extremely compact (most inflators are the size of your thumb), CO2 inflators are easy to carry in your backpack or even attached to your bike frame. They’re also lightweight, making them a great addition to your gear.
4) The affordability factor: CO2 inflators are now manufactured cheaply, so in the long run, they are a cheaper option than others. In fact, a valve and a pair of inflators are usually less expensive than a good quality small air pump.
5) The utility factor: When it comes to inflating tubeless tires, CO2 inflators easily beat hand pumps. If you’ve suffered a puncture from a tubeless tire, your hand pump is probably of no help. You will need to use an air compressor (which is heavy to carry with you) or you will need to use a CO2 inflator. This is the only technique that can create a tight seal between tire and tire, and deliver the quick blast of air needed to inflate a tubeless tire. Otherwise, when you start to inflate the tire, the air will escape faster than you are pumping it.
When all is said and done, a CO2 inflator can be something that can come in handy when you least expect it. So it is always a good idea to have a couple of them; after all, you never know when you’ll need them and you’ll be back on the road in no time.
