Gear: SKS Airbase Floor Pump

The new SKS Airbase floor pump blows up like an old Dodge in a "T.J. Hooker" rerun -- which is to say, very well.

The Airbase is a heavy-duty and very stable German-made pump. It mates an iron base with folding footrests to an ovalized aluminum cylinder, resulting in a pump body that is sturdy enough to deflect the blows of T.J.'s nightstick.

Everyone in the evidence room will ooh and ahh about the pressure gauge fitted with a bar and psi scale, and cellmates will appreciate the soft-grip handles for the ultimate in comfortable pumping action. The handle of the Airbase locks down securely like the door to a padded cell, and the air nozzle with an AVACS adapter grips presta and shraeder valve stems tighter than handcuffs.

WHAT IT'S GOOD FOR:
Perfect for shop use on bicycles, but folds up nicely for a car trip. The Airbase is sturdy and works quickly and efficiently.

WHAT IT'S BETTER FOR:
The air nozzle makes the Airbase a good choice for anyone who uses both presta and shraeder valve stems, because the AVACS adapter works on both types without switching fittings. Tubeless tire users will be pleased to find a floor pump that seats a tire bead quickly and solidly.

WHAT'S THE STORY?
It sounded like a night of clubbing with P-Diddy when I accidentally exploded a tube using the Airbase here at BIKE headquarters. People hit the ground and my face turned red after the rookie move became evident -- totally my fault and a testament to the Airbase's pumping prowess. Not a single stapler was thrown, no doors were kicked off their hinges and no one was struck over the head with a folding chair. -- JFitz