Last Updated on September 12, 2022
Mountain bike pumps are a must-have for every mountain biker. Not only does this provide the needed air for your tires to continue running. But this also ensures that you can ride for as long as you can and want without having to call for help because of a flat tire.
Yes, you can have these pumps inside your backpack. But that is usually inconvenient because it puts added weight on your back.
So, what’s the best way to bring your mountain bike pump with you?
Well, by mountain it on the bike itself!
This article will discuss how you can mount your pump on your bike correctly, as well as provide more information on the many ways to mount it in different areas.
Different Ways to Mount a Pump on Your Bike
Zip ties
Zip ties might be very cheap and simple, but they can help you a lot and make life more convenient for you.
A good example is by using it to tie a pump directly on your frame. What’s great about these is that they cost virtually nothing.
You can even reuse them and use as many as you want without worrying if your pump will fall or not. You can also use zip ties to tuck away brake and shifter cables. Choose a zip tie that is reusable so you can unlock them if you want to use your pump.
They are very good when it comes to security because they hold the pump in place without any rattling. Just make sure they have a rubber grip on the sides so that the pump won’t scratch and damage your bike frame.
Mount clip
Mount clips are also known as mounting brackets. These are more secure and stable compared to zip ties because brackets are specifically designed to secure portable pumps on bike frames.
It functions as a water bottle cage because of its fixtures. The best place to put a mounting clip is near the bottle cage mount because this is the most accessible area.
But you need to make sure that there is enough clearance between your legs and the mount clips so that you won’t hit it and make it fall to the ground.
Aside from that, you’ll also notice that mounting clips have a rubber strap that is hooked above the pump. This holds it securely on the frame and avoids any shaking or rattling motion.
Pump strap
Pump straps are growing in popularity these days because they provide an added aesthetic value to the overall looks of the bike.
- The Doodad is a universal mounting strap ideal for mounting cycling accessories onto the frame
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Zefal’s Doodad pump straps are among the most sought-out brands in the market today because of their assortment in designs. These feature a Velcro strap that lashes the pump securely on the bike frame. There are even some mini floor pump and high-pressure pump brands that can fit on pump straps.
What’s great about these straps is that they are very versatile. This means that you can use them in different places on your bike. You can place them on the top tube, down tube, or even seat tube if you don’t have a dropper post.
Where to mount pump on bike?
Down tube
The down tube is the most common area where you can mount your mountain bike pump. The down tube is the lower portion of your bike. It is the most accessible area and also the safest because you can easily reach it by hand.
It’s also safe because there is a very low chance you will hit any object strapped on it because you are not directly exposed to its entirety.
However, placing it on the down tube also has its own disadvantages, with the most common one being prone to getting lots of mud. The down tube is directly exposed to the ground. And any puddle, mud, or dust you ride through will surely stick to it.
That’s not much of a problem, though, because mountain bike pumps are made for the rugged outdoors. Unless, of course, if you’re too keen on keeping your biking gears crystal clean.
Seat tube
You can also mount your pump on your seat tube. The seat tube is the tube to where your saddle is connected to.
Its vertical position makes it another convenient way to mount your pump. But this only applies to hardtail bikes. These bikes don’t have any moving suspension linkages, which means that the pump won’t interfere with the bike’s movement.
You can’s also mount a pump on the seat tube if you have a dropper post. Obviously, the dropper will just bring the pump down and make it fall to the ground.
Top tube
The top tube is another area where you can mount mini pumps. The top tube is the horizontal tube that runs from your handlebar to your seat tube. This is the part of your bike which is on the uppermost part.
You can gain easy access to your frame pump, frame mount, and spare tube because it’s directly in front of you. However, having a frame pump is not recommended if you ride aggressive enduro or downhill trails because it can cause injuries if you hit it when falling out of your bike.
Related: What’s the Best Mini Pump for Mountain Bike?
Benefits of Mounting a Mountain Bike Pump
Convenience
Convenience is the best thing you can get out of mounting a pump on your bike. You can see the PSI reading on the pressure gauge and you don’t have to carry the weight on your back if you were to put it on your backpack. Or maybe avoid the annoying feeling of jam-packing it on your belt bag.
Mileage
You can go as far as you want because your bike tires are virtually invincible. Just get your mini pump and add air to your tires if ever it deflates.
You don’t have to stop your ride or get a bus instead and head home, or maybe call 911 if you’re stranded in the middle of nowhere. Simply get the mini pump and inflate your tires and you’re all good.
Security
Nothing beats the feeling of security when you’re out in the great outdoors. You don’t need to worry if you’ll get a flat tire because you go too fast or you ride on a very rough trail. Go wherever you want and like with frame pumps. Your bike will take you there.
Conclusion
Knowing where to mount a mountain bike mini pump on your bike is important because this provides you the convenience, security, and mileage you need to enjoy your ride and make the most out of the outdoors.
Just make sure you mount it properly and check it every once in a while to make sure that it won’t fall off.
Related: How Do I Choose a Mini Pump?
