off-road.cc

SKS’s Injex Lite is a lightweight, sturdily built little pump that gives great value for money. The ergonomics are well thought-out, making it a comfortable thing to use, which is good as it’s not the most efficient pump out there.

• Nine cheapskate alternatives to proper cycling products
• 11 tools every home bike mechanic should own
• 7 trailside fixes every cyclist should know

Made completely of high-grade plastic, the Injex Lite measures in at 255mm and weighs a measly 150g. Its low weight makes it unnoticeable in a bag or strapped to your bike.

It's compatible with Presta, Schrader and Dunlop valves. There’s no fancy auto-select head or any need to take the head apart to flip a rubber chip, either, and that's great news as it engages properly every time it meets a valve.

While pumping, it feels great in the hand thanks to its well-considered handle. However, if you squeeze it a little too tightly or hold it at a not-so-ideal angle, the handle catches on the main body.

This either stops you dead in the stroke or creates an annoying clunk as you scrape past it. With a little bit of practice and patience,  you’re past this issue.

The main downside to the Injex Lite is that it’s not incredibly efficient. So you’ll be putting in more pumps than you would with other options on the market.

If you’re on a budget, the SKS Injex Lite is a solid choice, and even better if you can nab a good deal on it. However, if you’re happy to spend a little more, there are similar pumps that’ll inflate your tyres and get you rolling again faster.

• www.sks-germany.com

You might also like:

• When should I replace my mountain bike pedal cleats?
• Buyer's guide to mountain bike grips - how to choose the best ones for you