Reviews

Bontrager TLR Flash Charger Floor Pump

A game-changing floor pump? Innovation meets versatility with the TLR Flash Charger

The strapline for the Bontrager TLR Flash Charger pump says “Game-changer”. A game-changing floor pump? We’re enthused and wary of hyperbole in equal measure here at RCUK, so let’s see.

The claim stems from the fact the Flash Charger negates the potential need to use an air compressor when installing a tubeless setup. Instead, you can preload an air chamber in order to instantly inflate tubeless tyres, so they seat more cleanly and efficiently. In practice it’s efficient and simple to use – just the ticket.

At the same time, the unit can also function as a normal pump. That means while it’s designed for tubeless tyres, there’s absolutely no reason why you can’t use it for clinchers.

Both the tubeless chamber and the standard alloy barrel are oversized so there’s plenty of air capacity to get the pressure as high as you desire with relative ease, and it also includes a high-quality head that can switch between use on Presta and Schraeder valves – perfect for those roadies among us that moonlight on the trails.

RCUK 100 2017 - Bontrager TLR Flash Charger Floor Pump

Bontrager TLR Flash Charger Floor Pump

Price: £99.99
Website: Trek

Of course, an accurate 160psi pressure gauge is included atop the unit, while pressure settings can be fine-tuned with the bleed valve – ideal if you just can’t stand rolling around on 61psi, instead of a round 60.

We’re also fans of how stable the three-legged base is, while weight distribution of the two barrels means it stands up on its own with little danger of falling over. Overall, it’s a quality unit for tubeless riders, and that makes it perfect for the 2017 edition of the RCUK 100.