SKS Clik Ace: These SKS mini-pumps are designed for use with the Schwalbe Clik Valve

With the Clik-Ace range, SKS is one of the first manufacturers not only to support the Schwalbe Clik Valve via adaptors, but also to integrate it consistently into a complete product family. All models feature an integrated Clik Tec pump head, which works directly with the new valve system. Instead of the familiar twist-and-lock mechanism, the pump head simply clicks onto the valve and locks securely into place. This is designed not only to simplify use, but also to prevent it from slipping off accidentally whilst pumping.

​Schwalbe Clik Valve: Is this what the valves of the future will look like?

​Conclusion from the editor’s perspective

With its Clik Valve system, Schwalbe aims to revolutionise the bicycle tyre valve. Indeed, the Clik Valve offers real advantages over the traditional Presta valve, particularly when it comes to inflating. No unscrewing, no clamping – a secure grip with just one click. The fact that SKS is now launching its own range of pumps for the system shows that German manufacturers are taking this seriously and that Clik Valve could soon become widely adopted. Those who already use the new valves on their bikes will finally no longer need a separate adapter thanks to the new Clik Ace pumps. For everyone else, the new pumps offer no added value. Retrofitting bikes is a time-consuming and costly process.

Four models for different applications

SKS takes a clear approach here: rather than relying on a single universal pump to meet all requirements, it offers four specialised models.

Clic Ace HV

The Clic Ace HV is designed for mountain bikers, gravel riders and touring cyclists who want to inflate their tyres to full volume as quickly as possible. Thanks to its telescopic function, the pump is designed to work particularly efficiently and inflate large tyres with just a few strokes.

• ​High-volume pump
• Telescopic function
• For MTB and gravel

Clic Ace HP

On the other hand, anyone who needs high tyre pressures – for example, on a road bike or exercise bike – will find in the Clic Ace HP the right solution. The model has been specifically designed for high pressure levels and is intended to make it easier to inflate narrow tyres.

• ​High-pressure pump
• For high tyre pressures
• Ideal for road bikes and exercise bikes

CO₂ version for road bikes and competition

For sporty cyclists, SKS is also launching the Clic Ace CO2. The pump can be used with 16- or 24-gram screw-top cartridges and is aimed particularly at road cyclists and racers who want to get a tyre back on the road as quickly as possible.

According to SKS, this is precisely where a particular advantage of the new Clik system becomes apparent: the secure connection between the pump head and the valve prevents the cartridge from accidentally detaching from the valve whilst under pressure. This can be a real convenience, particularly with CO₂ systems, in the event of a puncture.

• ​For 16 g and 24 g cartridges
• Quick tyre inflation in the event of a puncture

Travelling electrically with the Clic Ace E

Arguably the most exciting model in the range is the new Clic Ace E. The electric mini-pump handles the inflating process entirely on its own and combines the benefits of modern rechargeable battery technology with the Clik-Valve system. Unlike many previous electric mini-pumps, it does not need to be held in place continuously whilst inflating. Thanks to the secure valve connection, the pump stays securely attached to the valve on its own whilst inflating.

• ​Electric cordless mini pump
• Free-hand pumping thanks to a secure valve connection

Design compatible with the Clik system

Visually, too, the new pump series follows the minimalist design of the Clik-Valve system. The pump bodies are made of brushed aluminium and feature textured grip surfaces. Another striking feature is the so-called Flake surface, which is intended to give each pump a unique look. According to SKS, the models were developed in Germany and largely manufactured at the company’s site in Sundern.

SKS Clic Ace series - wKey characteristics

• Specially designed for the Schwalbe Clik Valve
• Integrated Clik-Tec pump head
• Secures firmly onto the valve
• Quick and easy to use
• Developed in Germany
• Largely manufactured in Sundern
• Aluminium construction with a textured surface