I just came back from a week of tarmac, then dirt and gravel, then back on road, then off again. I ‘air down’ for off road and then air back up for asphalt. It’s always been a chore prior to being turned on to the Ryobi handheld, battery powered compressor. It’s far more convenient and quicker than most any other compressor or pump I’ve ever used. It makes what was an unpleasant chore in the past quick and easy. And for those that may be new riders that don’t understand the benefit of dropping pressure off road, there is a noticeable increase in control and traction. Tires at full pressure can be dangerous on dirt and especially gravel, and ineffective on sand. Low to Mid-20s is a good amount. (And There’s a well-known Adv instructor out there that advocates for 15). You can run on asphalt at speed with pressure in the low 20s (I wouldn’t do it at 15 though) but it’s best to air them up to proper pressure for max control on asphalt especially in hard curves. High speeds with low pressure can result in higher than safe heat buildup. Just a tip for new riders and those still using a using a compressor powered by an outlet or worse - hand pump.
Hi YogiMoto, I have that one too. I prefer the Ryobi. Long-lasting battery power, and no wires. But if on a long trip, where there are no wall outlets with which to charge at night, then the cycle pump might be necessary. It is a smaller package, but not as quick. The LED gauge on the Ryobi is more convenient too.
Good to know - I carry a backup jumper/battery but mostly end up using it to charge my camera batteries. My main concern was the compressor battery draining on me...not that I'm going too far from civilization mind you but that is the goal. The fact that you've owned both is very persuasive nonetheless. Appreciate the intel!
I would be wary running a tubeless tyre at 15…even 20 is getting low on tube type rim. You stand to trap small rocks, sand, debris wedged in between rim and tyre breaking the seal, also a good chance of damaging rim or a pinch flat. Just my opinion of course, but a small compressor to air down and up makes good sense. 👍