Gravel riding exists in a space where endurance, equipment durability, and adaptability to varying terrain are essential. Riders require gear that’s both rugged and versatile, making the Cycplus AS2 Pro pump an appealing option. Combining compact design, ease of use, and eco-friendliness, this electric mini-pump has quickly earned a place in many gravel riders’ kits.
Compact, Lightweight, and Ready for Gravel
Gravel bikes often come with heavier setups than road bikes, adding extra tools, spare tubes, and robust tyres to handle the rougher paths. Every bit of extra weight can make a difference, so equipment that adds minimal burden is always a plus. The Cycplus AS2 Pro, weighing just 400 grams and measuring 20 cm in length, meets these demands with its lightweight form and portability.
I initially came across electric mini-pumps in Italy, intrigued by their potential to replace the old mini-pumps I was used to. When Cycplus later approached me to test the AS2 Pro, I was eager to see if it could truly earn a permanent place in my gravel kit. In Cannock Chase, the AS2 Pro barely registered in my saddlebag until I needed it, and its compact form allowed me to focus on the trail without thinking about extra bulk.
Precision in Gravel Pressure: The Ideal PSI for Mixed Terrain
Tyre pressure is especially important in gravel riding, affecting grip, control, and comfort across different terrains. Road tyres typically sit at 80-100 PSI or more, but gravel tyres thrive in the 30-40 PSI range for better traction on loose, unpredictable surfaces. When I set off to Cannock Chase with the AS2 Pro, I dialled in 35 PSI, which is ideal for those muddy paths and uneven stretches. Adjusting the PSI was a breeze on the AS2 Pro’s digital screen, and the automatic stop feature meant it shut off precisely at the set PSI.
This level of control is invaluable on gravel rides, where even a small difference in tyre pressure can impact handling. By the end of the review period, I even found myself using the Cycplus AS2 Pro for regular tyre maintenance, setting it up at home instead of my traditional track pump for its simple “set-and-go” functionality.
Practicality and Battery Life
One of the most common questions with any electric device is battery life, especially for gravel riders who might be out for hours or even days. I was pleased to discover that a single charge on the AS2 Pro lasted for six inflations to around 40 PSI. For my rides, that’s more than enough, but for multi-day bikepacking trips, a power bank can quickly top it up on the go. The AS2 Pro’s USB-C charging capability and compact size make it easy to recharge without taking up significant space in your bag.
A Sustainable Alternative to CO₂ Cartridges
Many cyclists use single-use CO₂ cartridges, which inflate tyres fast but come with environmental costs. These cartridges must be disposed of after each use, often ending up in landfills as they are difficult to recycle. There’s also the impact of their production and shipping to consider, which raises the overall environmental footprint of each cartridge. And if you’re unlucky enough to need multiple inflations on a ride, you may be left without a backup option.
The Cycplus AS2 Pro offers a reusable, eco-friendly alternative. With its built-in rechargeable battery, it completely eliminates the need for disposable CO₂ cartridges. Over time, it’s both a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. For gravel riders on longer routes, not having to carry a bundle of cartridges lightens the load while reducing waste. It’s a simple way to align with the sustainability goals that many cyclists value.
Real-World Experience: Fixing a Puncture Mid-Ride in Cannock Chase
About halfway through a ride at Cannock Chase, my rear tyre hit a sharp flint hidden beneath some mud, leaving me with a flat. Here, the AS2 Pro really shone. Setting it up was quick, thanks to its compatibility with Presta valves out of the box, and the digital display helped me monitor inflation even under the Chase’s shaded forest canopy. Holding the AS2 Pro to the valve stem, I set it to 35 PSI, which it reached in about 30 seconds, with a reassuring shut-off once it hit the target pressure.
Back on the bike, I felt confident in my tyre pressure without wondering if I’d over-inflated or left it too soft. The AS2 Pro’s precise control allowed me to get back on the trail quickly, handling the varied terrain with the right balance of grip and comfort.
Ease of Use and Ongoing Maintenance
Operating the Cycplus AS2 Pro is intuitive. After charging it fully, setting the target PSI is easy with the side buttons, and turning it on requires just a double-tap on the top button. The motor kicks in with a steady hum — a bit louder than a manual pump, but nothing obtrusive in the outdoors. Once inflated, I didn’t have to keep checking or adjusting the pressure, as the automatic stop feature guarantees accuracy.
Even after multiple uses, the AS2 Pro held up well, needing only occasional recharging. I found it could manage around six full inflations before needing to be topped up, which is great for regular rides, though riders on extended bikepacking trips may want to recharge it along the way.
In a world where every item in a gravel rider’s kit must be justified by performance, durability, and convenience, the Cycplus AS2 Pro stands out. It combines portability with the precision needed for varied terrain, making it an excellent choice for gravel cyclists who need gear that can keep up with them. And by eliminating the environmental waste of CO₂ cartridges, it provides an eco-friendly solution that aligns well with the growing consciousness around sustainability in cycling.
With its practical design and thoughtful features, the Cycplus AS2 Pro isn’t just a pump — it’s a reliable companion on the trail, offering an ideal balance of portability, precision, and sustainability for gravel riders. Whether you’re tackling technical trails or setting off on a multi-day adventure, the AS2 Pro is a tool that proves its worth on every ride.
