SKS EMP Mini Compressor: A battery-powered mini pump weighing just 151 grams

Electric bike pumps have long since become more than just a niche product for your jersey pocket. In the latest TOUR comparison of seven mini compressors Models from Cycplus, Dynamic, Muc-Off, NG Sports, Silca, Topeak and Trek had to demonstrate how well they perform in the event of a puncture. SKS is now also entering this market with the EMP. Price: 79.99 euros >> available here. This makes the SKS EMP one of the more affordable breakdown assistance services of its kind.

Full range of features

The EMP measures 83 x 33 x 52 millimetres and comes with a reversible pump head for Sclaverand, Presta and Dunlop valves. An extension hose is included in the pack. This is particularly useful for valves that are difficult to access and for TPU inner tubes with a plastic core, as the pump does not need to be positioned directly against the valve.

The desired pressure is set before starting; the display shows either bar or PSI. Once the target value is reached, the EMP should switch off automatically. According to SKS, it also saves the last selected pressure setting. The manufacturer states that it can inflate up to three 700C x 28 tyres per battery charge, with a charging time of around 25 minutes via USB.

Just 151 grams

The maximum pressure of 8.3 bar or 120 PSI, as well as the weight, range and charging time, are figures provided by the manufacturer. An independent test is still required to determine how much pressure the EMP actually achieves under real-world conditions, how precisely the auto-stop function operates, and how hot the casing or valve connection becomes.

It is precisely these points that set the current devices apart. In the latest TOUR test, the key factors – alongside weight and pack size – are, above all, throughput, battery life, ease of use and heat build-up. A look at individual models that have already been tested, such as the Trek Air Rush or the Cycplus AS2 Pro shows that, whilst the display and automatic shut-off feature do enhance convenience, they are no substitute for checking the actual tyre pressure after inflating.

Weighing 151 grams, the SKS EMP It falls into the category of compact cordless pumps, but is not an ultra-lightweight model. For mountain bikers, it is likely to be of particular interest as a handy breakdown aid when you need to quickly restore sufficient tyre pressure following a repair. Anyone who needs to inflate very large tyres several times whilst out and about should treat the capacity stated by the manufacturer as a guide only, rather than as a confirmed real-world performance figure.

What have your experiences been with those trendy mini-compressors? Or do you prefer to stick with a traditional mini-pump? Have your say in the comments.